Heavy Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Company Overview GTI Fabrication designs, engineers, and manufactures complex modular systems supporting modular data center infrastructure, battery energy storage systems (BESS), power generation platforms, and industrial markets. Our Buffalo manufacturing facility supports fabrication, welding, paint, electrical integration, mechanical assembly, and final system build for large-scale industrial infrastructure products. GTI operates in a fast-paced heavy manufacturing environment requiring skilled Heavy Equipment Operators, Riggers, and Overhead Crane Operators to safely move large weldments, structural assemblies, modular enclosures, electrical equipment, and industrial components throughout production operations. Position Overview GTI Fabrication is seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators, Riggers, and Overhead Crane Operators to support material movement, rigging operations, crane operation, and heavy manufacturing activities across the Buffalo facility. This role is responsible for safely operating overhead cranes and material handling equipment to transport large structural assemblies, fabricated weldments, modular systems, industrial equipment, containers, skids, and production materials throughout fabrication and assembly operations. The ideal candidate has experience operating overhead cranes in industrial manufacturing, steel fabrication, modular construction, shipyard, heavy equipment, or industrial production environments and understands proper rigging techniques, load balancing, signaling, and safe material handling practices. Key Responsibilities Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities Perform Heavy Equipment Operator duties supporting fabrication, manufacturing, assembly, and material movement operations Safely move large weldments, steel structures, modular assemblies, industrial equipment, and fabricated components throughout the facility Support production teams with staging, positioning, loading, unloading, and movement of manufacturing materials Operate material handling equipment safely and efficiently in a fast-paced industrial manufacturing environment Coordinate with welders, fabricators, assemblers, and production teams during heavy movement operations Support Heavy Equipment Operator activities tied to modular data center infrastructure and industrial manufacturing builds Rigger Responsibilities Perform Rigger duties supporting overhead lifting, rigging setup, load balancing, and material positioning activities Inspect slings, chains, hooks, spreader bars, lifting devices, and rigging hardware prior to use Properly rig large structural assemblies, fabricated weldments, skids, and industrial equipment for safe lifting and transport Determine load weights, center of gravity, lifting points, and safe rigging configurations Communicate with crane operators and production teams using standard hand signals and safe lifting procedures Support Rigger activities tied to fabrication, welding, modular assembly, and industrial manufacturing operations Overhead Crane Operator Responsibilities Operate overhead cranes to safely lift, transport, rotate, stage, and position heavy materials and assemblies Support movement of fabricated structures, containers, steel components, skids, electrical equipment, and modular systems Conduct pre-shift inspections and safety checks on overhead crane equipment Maintain awareness of load clearances, personnel safety, and production flow during crane operations Coordinate closely with Riggers and manufacturing personnel during heavy lifts and material movement activities Maintain Overhead Crane Operator safety and operational standards at all times Material Handling & Manufacturing Support Assist with production staging, material flow, and movement of parts throughout fabrication and assembly operations Support loading and unloading activities for incoming and outgoing materials Maintain organized staging areas and safe work zones throughout manufacturing operations Assist production teams with positioning materials and assemblies for welding, fabrication, paint, electrical integration, and final assembly Support inventory movement and operational readiness activities across the facility Safety & Operational Discipline Follow OSHA regulations, rigging standards, crane safety procedures, and internal manufacturing safety protocols Perform all lifting and movement operations in accordance with safe rigging and load handling practices Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas Participate in safety meetings, operational training, and continuous improvement activities Stop work immediately if unsafe lifting conditions or operational hazards are identified Required Qualifications Experience as a Heavy Equipment Operator, Rigger, Overhead Crane Operator, Material Handler, Crane Operator, or similar industrial manufacturing role Experience operating overhead cranes in industrial manufacturing, fabrication, steel, shipyard, or heavy equipment environments Strong understanding of rigging practices, load balancing, lifting points, and safe material handling procedures Ability to inspect and properly use slings, chains, hooks, lifting hardware, and rigging equipment Ability to read load charts, follow lift procedures, and communicate effectively during lifting operations Comfortable working around large fabricated assemblies, structural steel, industrial equipment, and heavy manufacturing operations Ability to lift 50 pounds and work in physically demanding industrial environments Strong attendance, reliability, and safety awareness Preferred Qualifications NCCCO, rigging, crane, or heavy equipment certifications preferred Forklift or industrial material handling equipment experience preferred Experience supporting modular construction, industrial fabrication, or engineered product manufacturing preferred Experience working around weldments, steel fabrication, containers, skids, or industrial assemblies preferred Knowledge of lockout/tagout, industrial safety standards, and crane inspection procedures preferred Benefits & Perks GTI Fabrication offers a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support employees and their families while providing long-term career growth opportunities within a fast-growing manufacturing organization.

Benefits may include:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match (where applicable) Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays Sick time in accordance with state and local requirements Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage Career advancement opportunities within a rapidly growing organization Exposure to advanced manufacturing, modular infrastructure, and large-scale industrial projects Collaborative, fast-paced environment with strong operational leadership Employee-focused culture centered on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on position, location, and employment classification.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$24.00•$32.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Application Question(s): Are you able to work 3rd shift (Mon•Fri 10pm•6:30am)? Ability to

Commute:

Buffalo, NY 14219 (Required)

Work Location:

In person