About The Position

As a Rigger/Crane Operator at Steel America, a business unit of Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for the safe and efficient handling, movement, and securing of heavy machinery, equipment, and materials in a shipyard and heavy industrial environment. This role involves using rigging gear, hoists, and cranes to position loads and ensure they are safely secured during transport and installation. Experience operating overhead cranes required. The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel. This position is for 2nd Shift.

Requirements

  • Must have at least 5 years of experience in rigging, preferably in a marine or shipyard environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must be able to operate overhead cranes.
  • Must have previous experience operating a forklift and forklift qualified.
  • Must be able to climb and have no fears of elevated heights.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using rigging gear, hoists, and cranes.
  • Strong understanding of load calculations and rigging techniques.
  • Ability to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
  • Must be able to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.
  • Ability to obtain DBIDS preferred.
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships.
  • Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions.
  • At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Nice To Haves

  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in rigging or related fields such as Rigger Level 1.

Responsibilities

  • Assemble and set up rigging equipment, including ropes, cables, pulleys, winches, and cranes, to move and secure heavy loads.
  • Conduct weight testing IAW specified tech manuals for equipment such as Cranes, Davits, Winches, Anchors, and anchor chains, within safety guidelines.
  • Safely lift, move, and position heavy machinery, equipment, and materials within the shipyard, heavy industrial, and aboard vessels, ensuring balance and stability.
  • Read and interpret schematics and lifting plans to determine the appropriate rigging techniques and equipment for each task.
  • Regularly inspect rigging gear and equipment for wear and damage, performing maintenance and repairs as necessary to ensure safety and reliability.
  • Communicate and coordinate with crane operators, supervisors, and other team members to ensure smooth and efficient rigging operations.
  • Control movement of heavy objects/equipment through narrow openings and confined spaces, using jacks, pulley blocks, chain falls, and rollers.
  • Identify and resolve rigging-related issues on the job site, ensuring safe and effective solutions are implemented.
  • Maintain accurate records of rigging operations, including equipment used, loads handled, and any incidents or near misses.
  • Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
  • Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
  • Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.

Benefits

  • 401k retirement program with match
  • paid holidays
  • competitive paid time off (PTO)
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