Certified Crane Operator

About Knife River

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE‑first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day.

Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities.

Knife River's crane operator will safely operate rough terrain hydraulic cranes to transfer heavy objects from one location to another. An RT crane, or rough terrain crane, is a mobile crane designed to work in challenging conditions like uneven ground or tight spaces.

• Operate RT hydraulic cranes.
• Setup machinery based on complex manuals. Calculate load capacity, determine weight of loads in relation to the manufacturer’s load chart specifications, whether it’s on a construction jobsite or in a facility.
• Inspect the crane to ensure its safety on a daily basis for defects, wear, and maintenance prior to operation. Report deficiencies promptly to supervisor.
• Inspect and assess ground conditions to ensure the crane is set up safely.
• Inspect clearances, overhead lines and other objects to ensure no accidents or damages occur.
• Hoist, position and place machinery, equipment or other large objects at construction sites and industrial facilities.
• Work within precise limits and standards of accuracy.
• Coordinate with ground crew and other operators to interpret all forms of signal-hand, verbal and radio.
• Maintain activity logs and records of service.
• Inspect rigging and remove damaged equipment from service.
• Wear required PPE at all times.
• Willingness to travel as work dictates.

• NCCCO crane certification or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years' experience operating RT Mobile Cranes.
• Rigging expertise.
• Experience working around heavy highway construction jobsites.
• Accuracy and attention to details.
• Knowledge of OSHA Regulations and ANSI Standards in Crane Operations.
• Proficient in oral and written communication skills.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401K with Company Match
• Profit Sharing
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program

To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application online at

Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law. If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call to speak with a human resources representative.

Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.

Put your skills to work with us! Knife River is committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Crane position:
Airforce: 3E2XX Pavement and Construction Equipment. Marines: 1345 Engineer Equipment Operator.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.