Operator

Location: WA, OR, CA, ID | Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal | Industry: Marine Construction & Dredging Operations

About the Position

HME is seeking a skilled Friction Crane Operator to perform heavy equipment operations for marine construction, dredging, and pile driving projects. The operator will be responsible for safely maneuvering cranes, excavators, clamshell buckets, and other specialized machinery in dynamic marine environments. This role requires precision, attention to safety, and compliance with OSHA, USACE, and environmental regulations.

Operators who also have a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) Captain’s license are exceptional candidates for this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including friction cranes, derrick barges, heavy civil equipment, and workboats or skiffs.
• Perform dredging, excavation, and lifting operations in marine environments.
• Operate heavy equipment at onshore disposal sites.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Work with site supervisors and project managers to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, USACE Quality Control Programs, state, and client safety regulations.
• Assist in load handling, mooring, and deck operations as needed.
• Manage and support a Deck Engineer and Deck Hand(s) in preventative maintenance and repairs to derrick barges in the field.

Qualifications & Requirements

• NCCCO LAT Crane Operator Certification
• Minimum 3+ years of experience operating friction cranes in construction or dredging environments.
• Experience with derrick barges, land-based cranes, and heavy civil equipment for pile driving, dredging, and material handling.
• Ability to work in dynamic, weather-exposed job sites.
• Strong understanding of rigging, lifting capacities, and marine safety protocols.

Preferred Certifications & Licenses

• OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Construction Safety Training
• USACE Quality Control Programs
• TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) Card
• Boater’s Card (State-Specific) – Preferred for operating equipment on marine job sites.
• First Aid/CPR Certification

Relevant Industry Training

• Hypack/Dredgepack Software
• Qualified Rigging & Signal Person Training for lifting operations.
• HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification (For operators handling hazardous materials).

Veteran Applicants Encouraged

Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Industry-Leading Standards & Compliance

This role ensures adherence to the highest industry standards, including:

• OSHA & USACE Safety Regulations – Maintaining compliance in all lifting, excavation, and dredging operations.
• USACE Quality Control Programs – Ensuring federally contracted projects meet operational requirements.
• Maritime Operations Standards – Ensuring safe vessel and barge-mounted equipment handling.
• Environmental Dredging & Material Handling Compliance – Meeting federal, state, local, and client environmental requirements.

Technical & Tool Proficiency

• Microsoft Office Suite – Basic proficiency for reporting and documentation.
• Heavy Equipment Telematics & GPS Systems – Familiarity with machine control systems for marine excavation.
• Marine Navigation Software (Hypack, Dredgepack) – Preferred for dredging projects.