Crane Operator - Structural Steel

About the Company

RNGD is a rapidly scaling organization emerging as a nationally recognized leader in construction through our unique Renegade mindset focused on innovation, creativity, and culture. The team is made up of a highly engaged group of seasoned professionals and emerging leaders. We are creators who believe that what we build drives the growth of our cities and that to fulfill our mission, we must constantly challenge the old way of doing things. Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, we thrive on building communities, building teams, building leaders, and growing the business throughout the Southeast region with offices in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama.

About the Role 

We’re looking for a Crane Operator - Structural Steel that will safely operate mobile and stationary cranes to lift, move, and position materials, equipment, and other loads on RNGD Structural Steel construction sites. This role requires precision, strong situational awareness, and strict adherence to safety regulations. Operators must be proficient with multiple crane types, assist with lift planning and rigging, and support field teams in maintaining efficient and safe operations.

Core Responsibilities

• Crane Operation and Equipment Management

• • Set up, inspect, and operate cranes, including crawler cranes (hydraulic and lattice boom), rough terrain (RT), all-terrain (AT), and truck cranes.
  • Perform pre-inspection, startup procedures, and functional tests, including checking oil, grease, water, tires, fuel, and related components.
  • Interpret load charts and operator manuals to ensure safe operation.
  • Keep cranes and associated equipment clean and in proper working order.
  • Make minor repairs to cranes and heavy equipment; report serious mechanical issues promptly.

• Rigging, Lifting, and Material Handling

• • Use cable equipment, rigging gear, and crane systems to lift and move materials, machinery, and heavy objects.
  • Secure cargo using ropes, blocks, chains, covers, and other rigging materials.
  • Inspect rigging and loads, prepare materials for lifting, and verify lifting capacities to prevent overload.
  • Use standard hand signals or radio communication to coordinate lifts with riggers and signal persons.
  • Assist the project team in preparing and executing lift plans, including engineered and critical lift plans.
  • Assist in selecting appropriate rigging gear for each lift.

• Field and Equipment Support

• • Support ironworker crews with crane positioning and repositioning as the structure climbs.
  • Assist in crane setup, outrigger placement, and mat/pad preparation for each pick zone.
  • Maintain accurate lift logs, daily inspection records, and required documentation.
  • Manually move materials when necessary.
  • Support warehouse and logistics operations (loading, unloading, transporting materials/equipment).
  • Drive company trucks as needed.
  • Maintain accurate records, logs, job tickets, and required documentation.

• Safety and Compliance

• • Follow OSHA regulations, ANSI standards, and RNGD safety protocols at all times.
  • Maintain high situational awareness to prevent unsafe conditions or incidents.
  • Identify hazardous conditions or behaviors and report them immediately.
  • Contribute to a positive safety culture and uphold RNGD’s Safety Always core value.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• NCCCO certification for fixed and swing cranes.
• NCCCO certification for rigging.
• 3+ years of experience as a certified crane operator on fixed and swing cranes. Specifically in structural steel erection. (commercial, industrial, or institutional.)
• Familiarity with structural steel erection sequences, plumbing-up operations, and multi-story framing.
• Experience reading structural drawings and erection plans.
• Experience with multi-crane/tandem picks preferred.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and ANSI standards for crane operations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Exceptional relationship-building, listening, and communication skills.

Core Competencies

• RNGD Values Alignment
  • Exemplifies RNGD’s core values:
    • Renegade Mentality
    • Sweep Floors
    • Build Together
    • Honor Promises
  • Safety-Minded
    • Follows all operational and safety procedures rigorously.
    • Identifies and reports hazards immediately.
    • Promotes a safe work environment for self and others.
  • Technical Proficiency
    • Operates cranes and heavy equipment with precision and confidence.
    • Understands load charts, rigging, lift planning, and equipment limitations.
    • Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
    • Reads and interprets structural steel erection drawing, pick lists, and critical lift plans.
  • Communication
    • Uses hand signals and radio communication effectively.
    • Collaborates closely with riggers, signalers, foremen, and field teams.
    • Provides clear, concise updates and reports.
  • Team-Oriented
    • Works cooperatively with the project team to complete lifts safely and efficiently.
    • Assists in logistics, material handling, and equipment tasks as needed.
  • Detail-Oriented
    • Ensures accuracy in load preparation, rigging, documentation, and log maintenance.
    • Follows lift plans, procedures, and specifications precisely

RNGD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.