How to become A Crane Operator

• Dragline Operator
• Hoist Operator
• Boom Truck Operator
• Tower Crane Operator
• Mobile Crane Operator
• Hydraulic Crane Operator

What do Crane Operators do?

A Crane Operator would typically need to:

• Set up and operate different types of cranes to lift and move objects from one spot to another or demolish structures
• Set up the crane manufacturer’s operating manual safely to ensure smooth operation of the machine
• Wear PPT safety equipment as demanded by regulations
• Conduct safety inspections daily; maintain the cranes under their charge; clean and service their hoisting mechanism; monitor crane stability and weight of the loads lifted; inspect hydraulic systems before crane operation; carry repair tools and make minor repairs
• Follow a schedule and use or move the crane accordingly; handle its levers and pedals competently and carefully; drive the crane to the workstation or designated area for operation
• Operate the crane by moving its principal arm into a suitable position to connect with the materials to be hauled; move the crane and its arm to place the materials in their intended spot
• Communicate with a banksman and fellow workers on-site to ensure that everyone is safe when objects are being moved; ensure that travel routes are safe and clear
• Keep business logs, and a record of all the objects and materials moved on-site; process the job billing as required
• Report any issues about the crane or the work schedule to a supervisor

Crane Operators typically work outdoors, often in noisy and stressful situations such as construction sites and shipping docks. They may also have to work indoors in warehouses and factories.

If working outdoors, Crane Operators may be subject to extreme weather conditions in summers and winters, depending on their location. In these circumstances, they should dress appropriately to maintain comfort.

Crane Operators spend most of their time in their crane cabs, often even during their mealtimes and breaks. Typically, they must work closely with the ground crew on-site and with other heavy equipment operators.

Crane Operators often need to travel between locations or commute to their designated site and may have to spend considerable amounts of time away from home during busy months.

Crane Operators typically work 40 hours in a standard workweek of five days, averaging 8 hours a day. During peak periods, or depending on the project they are involved in, Crane Operators may need to work overtime. When nearing deadlines, Crane Operators are likely to work extra shifts, if required. It is also not uncommon for Crane Operators to work extra shifts to earn higher wages.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Crane Operators can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Crane Operators are generally employed by:

• Construction Firms
• Mining Organisations
• Manufacturing Firms
• Shipping Companies
• Warehouses
• Large Factories

Professional associations and organisations are crucial for Crane Operators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications. Crane Operators should join unions if available since unionised workers typically earn more than those who are not.

• Working in a highly noisy environment caused by other heavy machinery
• Working in extreme weather conditions such as snow and heat, especially if you work on a construction site
• Injury to the body when lifting or moving heavy objects
• Falling, especially when inspecting the crane or working at a high altitude if proper precautions are not taken
• Repetitive strain injury (RSI) from repetitive movement when operating cranes
• Working in an enclosed space that is high above the ground; working long shifts in an enclosed space
• Missing family and friends when working overtime to meet deadlines; being away from home, depending on the location
• Maintaining good physical strength and stamina to climb up to the crane cabin frequently

Work experience is essential when seeking employment as a Crane Operator. Working in the construction sector with a company or working under a supervisor or a relative who works with heavy machinery will give you a competitive edge in the job market. Students can work part-time, over the weekend or even during holidays to gain work experience.

Following graduation from a trade school or high school, aspiring Crane Operators typically enrol at a general Crane Operator training program, that typically lasts from three weeks to three months, depending on the region and provider.

Training programs offer crucial instructions on crane maintenance, safety and operation. They also prepare students for national certification examinations, which Crane Operators in most regions require.

Typically, Crane Operators do not require formal education beyond a high school diploma. However, aspiring Crane Operators may enrol at a trade school for courses that could last a year or two. Trade schools provide practical instructions and foster skills in operating heavy machinery, including cranes, which may be helpful for further training.

Typically, Crane Operators need certification to find employment. Since certification requirements may differ depending on your location, please confirm them with relevant local or national boards. Certification exams are available to candidates who are over 18 years of age and have completed an in-house or third-party training program.

Applicable candidates must undergo a physical and medical examination to ensure that they are healthy enough to be Crane Operators. Furthermore, candidates must also comply with the certifying board’s regulations regarding ethics and substance use.

Applicants must pass a written and practical examination in their speciality crane operation within a designated period to gain certification. Crane Operators are obliged to pass a recertification examination after several years, depending on local rules and regulations. They must continue to abide by the medical, substance, and ethical practices of the certifying boards to maintain certification.

Since Crane Operators often have to drive their cranes to specific areas or travel to work, a driver’s license could be mandatory.

Depending on local rules and regulations, or company policy, Crane Operators may have to gain additional certification or licensure or even hold both.

With experience, certification, and additional training, Crane Operators can expand their horizons and opportunities. Being familiar with different kinds of cranes would allow a Crane Operator to work across job sectors. With experience and a good job record, Crane Operators may work as Supervisors or participate in more significant projects. They can also choose to work as Estimators or Dispatchers.

Certifications, required licenses, and apprenticeships help Crane Operators get jobs by helping them demonstrate their credibility and experience to prospective employers.

Typically, once hired, Crane Operators undergo an apprenticeship program that lasts between one and six years, depending on the region and program. During apprenticeships, you will be supervised by an experienced Crane Operator, who will guide you and help you better understand the machinery and the industry.

Types of Cranes

Crane Operators must know how to use different kinds of cranes, such as a mobile crane, tower crane or boom truck, for various jobs. Ensure you are competent in your skills and familiarise yourself with handling these different cranes to broaden your horizons when applying for jobs.

Effects on Wages

Wages for a Crane Operator may be lower or higher depending on the location of the job, its difficulty, and the time lost due to bad weather. Ensure that you gather all the necessary information before applying for positions.

When starting, apprentices usually earn about 50 to 70 per cent of a qualified worker’s hourly wage. As an apprentice progresses through their program, their wages will increase to reflect their experience.

Handy Tips

To take up a Crane Operator’s job, you must feel at ease working at heights and in small, enclosed spaces in a noisy and often dangerous environment. Give due importance to physical fitness since you must also pass a medical examination to work.

The largest crane in the world, SGC-250, is owned by Sarens, a Belgian company. It was launched on the 9th of November, 2018. Reaching a height of 250 meters, it can carry up to 5,000 tonnes of weight.

Though stressful and gruelling, a Crane Operator’s career could prove rewarding for someone who enjoys working in the construction sector, operating heavy machinery, and tackling challenging situations. Furthermore, given the use of cranes across industries and sectors, job opportunities are plentiful and rewarding.

Before using any crane, make sure to perform a proper safety check on it for your own safety and the safety of those around you. Inspect the crane every time before you use it.