Hydraulic Crane Operator

Florida Crystals is a leading domestic sugar producer and North America’s first fully integrated cane sugar company, guiding our sugar from farm to table. We are America’s first and only producer of certified organic sugar, grown and harvested in the United States. Our renewable energy facility is the largest of its kind in North America and provides clean energy that powers our sugar operations, which helps us reduce our use of fossil fuels. Florida Crystals also sustainably farms rice, sweet corn and other vegetables in rotation with our sugarcane. Our rice mill is the only rice mill in Florida.

OVERVIEW

The Hydraulic Crane Operator is responsible for operating, inspecting, and maintaining hydraulic cranes to perform lifting, loading, and moving operations on construction sites, storage yards, and various worksites associated with agricultural and industrial operations. Working in coordination with site supervisors, engineers, and other crew members, the operator ensures precise, safe, and efficient movement of materials, equipment, and structures.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate hydraulic cranes to lift, move, position, and place materials and equipment according to project specifications and safety protocols.
• Conduct daily inspections of crane equipment to ensure functionality, safety, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks, lubrication, and minor repairs to hydraulic systems and crane components.
• Interpret load charts, plans, and blueprints to determine safe lifting procedures and equipment setup.
• Collaborate with signalers, riggers, and ground crew to coordinate lifting operations and ensure clear communication throughout each job.
• Monitor environmental conditions and adjust operations to account for wind, weather, and changing site requirements.
• Adhere strictly to company, OSHA, and industry safety regulations and procedures, including personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Report any equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, incidents, or near misses immediately to the site supervisor.
• Maintain accurate records of daily crane operations, inspections, maintenance activities, and worksite occurrences.
• Participate in ongoing safety training, equipment certification, and professional development initiatives.
• Assist in the loading, securing, and transport of materials, as needed, using forklifts, hoists, or other lifting equipment.
• Support project timelines by working efficiently and adjusting to evolving operational needs and priorities.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in various welding techniques and the ability to work with different types of metals.
• Strong understanding of welding symbols, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Attention to detail and the ability to produce high-quality work.
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy materials and equipment.
• Comfortable working in various outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures and weather.
• Ability to stand, bend, and work in confined spaces for extended periods
• Must be able to pass a background check
• Must be able to pass a physical and drug screening

Location

• Sugar Farms Co-op

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other category protected under federal, state, or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.