Ship's Gear Crane Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Ship Gear Crane Operator
Location: Bulk Handling Marine Terminal
Position Summary The Ship Gear Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of vessel-mounted cranes (ship’s gear) during bulk cargo loading and discharge operations at a marine terminal. This role plays a critical part in maintaining production targets while ensuring compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.The operator must demonstrate strong situational awareness, precision control skills, and the ability to coordinate effectively with stevedores, signal persons, equipment operators, and vessel crews.
Operational Duties

• Operate ship-mounted cranes and other specialized heavy equipment to load and discharge bulk commodities such as aggregates, fertilizers, and other dry bulk materials.
• Perform precise hoisting, swinging, and placement of clamshell buckets, hooks, or other lifting attachments.
• Maintain steady production rates while minimizing cargo spillage and equipment wear.
• Coordinate with Stevedore and terminal supervisors to ensure smooth cargo flow.
• Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report mechanical or operational concerns immediately.
• Monitor load limits, boom angles, and operating conditions to prevent overload or unsafe operations.
• Adjust crane operations based on vessel trim, list, weather conditions, and cargo type.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all terminal safety policies, OSHA regulations, and maritime industry standards.
• Adhere to site-specific safety procedures and lockout/tagout requirements.
• Maintain clear communication via radio and hand signals.
• Stop operations immediately if unsafe conditions arise.
• Participate in safety meetings, and ongoing training.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Inspect wire ropes, sheaves, hooks, clamshells, and lifting gear prior to and during operations.
• Ensure proper rigging and attachment of lifting devices.
• Report equipment damage, unusual vibrations, hydraulic leaks, or electrical issues.
• Assist maintenance personnel with troubleshooting when required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Proven experience operating ship’s gear cranes or similar heavy lift cranes in a marine or industrial environment.
• Knowledge of bulk cargo handling operations.
• Ability to read load charts and understand crane capacity limitations.
• Strong understanding of safe lifting practices and signaling procedures.
• Valid TWIC card (or ability to obtain).
• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on vessel schedules.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent hand-eye coordination and depth perception.
• Strong focus and ability to operate equipment for extended periods.
• Clear verbal communication skills.
• High level of safety awareness.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced marine environment.
• Mechanical aptitude.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb ladders and access crane cabs at heights.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while maintaining alertness.
• Tolerance for working in outdoor conditions including heat, cold, rain, and wind.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed.

Work Environment

• Marine terminal environment with exposure to noise, dust, heavy equipment traffic, and vessel operations.
• Work performed on board vessels and dockside.
• Variable schedule dependent on vessel arrivals and cargo demands.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities. In addition to the above job duties, employees will be expected to work in various capacities at other locations within the company based on the needs of the company. This job description is not exhaustive or intended to be all-inclusive of all job duties that may apply to an employee. Duties may change at any time with or without notice.