Process Operator / Crane Operator

Location: Charlotte, NC
Schedule: Friday–Sunday, 5:30 AM–6:00 PM (3×12 weekend shift).
Training: Monday–Thursday, 5:30 AM–4:00 PM for the first 2–3 months.
Duration: 12 Months
Rate: $22 per hour

Job Summary
We are seeking a skilled Process Operator/Crane Operator to support daily production activities in an industrial manufacturing environment. This role involves operating manual machinery, handling equipment and materials, using air tools, and performing basic inspections. Ideal candidates will have strong mechanical aptitude, the ability to operate industrial equipment safely, and comfort working a structured 3‑day weekend shift.
Key Responsibilities

• Operate manual machines such as mills, grit blasters, and rollers.
• Run basic production equipment including furnaces, airflow stands, spot welders, and similar tools
• Move products and materials using forklifts, cranes, and hand trucks.
• Use air tools such as grinders and air hammers for production tasks.
• Perform basic mechanical inspections using micrometers, pie tapes, depth gauges, and related tools.
• Understand and perform metal removal while considering the reuse of parts.
• Change out blast/coating media in 50‑gallon barrels as required
• Work outdoors as needed and follow all safety requirements, including respirator use when applicable.

Qualifications

• Ability to pass a mechanical aptitude and hands‑on skills assessment
• Experience operating manual machines (mills, grit blasting, rollers).
• Ability to obtain crane and forklift certification.
• Experience operating air tools (grinders, air hammers, polymer dispensers).
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Must be able to be fitted for a respirator if required.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.