Crane Operator

Responsibilities: Safely remove and replace industrial forklift batteries weighing several thousand pounds using overhead crane systems and battery extraction equipment. Perform battery changes for electric forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and other powered industrial vehicles in accordance with production schedules. Inspect batteries, charging stations, cables, connectors, watering systems, and lifting devices for damage, wear, or safety concerns. Operate overhead cranes, hoists, and battery handling equipment in compliance with OSHA standards and company safety requirements. Monitor battery charging cycles and maintain proper charging schedules to maximize battery life and equipment availability. Water, clean, and maintain industrial batteries according to manufacturer specifications and preventive maintenance schedules. Maintain accurate records of battery changes, inspections, charging activity, and maintenance performed. Respond promptly to battery-related equipment downtime and support production teams in minimizing operational interruptions.

Essential Skills: Demonstrated mechanical aptitude for working with industrial equipment and battery systems. Hands-on experience operating overhead cranes and hoists in an industrial environment. Understanding of industrial forklift batteries and powered industrial vehicles, including forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and similar equipment. Ability to perform preventive maintenance on batteries and related charging equipment. Basic electrical knowledge, including safe use of tools such as multimeters for diagnostics. Ability to read and interpret blueprints or technical diagrams related to equipment and systems. Experience working with heavy equipment and hydraulics in a manufacturing or industrial setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications: Experience working with diesel-powered equipment in an industrial or manufacturing environment. Comfort using reach lifts and other material handling equipment. Familiarity with environmental regulations related to spill prevention and cleanup. Ability to support continuous improvement efforts focused on safety, efficiency, and equipment reliability. Strong communication skills to report equipment issues and collaborate with maintenance and production teams. Organizational skills to maintain a clean, orderly battery room and work area. Reliability and dependability in adhering to production schedules and maintenance routines.

Why Work Here? You join a company that invests in employees from day one with comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, as well as a 100% 401(k) match up to 6%. You benefit from quarterly incentive programs with potential for annual bonuses, generous paid time off including 18 days of PTO and 11 paid holidays, and a clean, safe, largely climate-controlled work environment. The organization offers steady 40-hour workweeks with opportunities for overtime, supporting both financial stability and work-life balance.

Work Environment: This position is based in a heavy industrial manufacturing facility with a clean and safety-focused work environment. Most areas are climate controlled, providing a comfortable setting while working with industrial batteries and powered vehicles. The role involves regular use of overhead cranes, hoists, battery extraction equipment, forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and diagnostic tools such as multimeters. Work is performed across three fixed shifts: 1st shift (7:00 a.m.3:00 p.m., MondayFriday), 2nd shift (3:00 p.m.11:00 p.m., MondayFriday), and 3rd shift (11:00 p.m.7:00 a.m., SundayThursday). Employees follow established safety protocols, environmental regulations, and PPE requirements while working in an organized battery room and industrial production areas.

Job Type & Location: This is a Permanent position based out of Lafayette, IN.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $32.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Lafayette, IN.Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Oct 16, 2026.