How To Get A Job As A Crane Operator

Crane Operators are skilled individuals who work in a variety of areas.  Qualified Crane Operators are still in demand and are well paid for their work.

Crane Operators may work anywhere that large objects need to be lifted, moved, or demolished, as in warehouses, construction sites, factories, logging camps, and shipping terminals.   This work can at times be dangerous, especially when cranes operate near power lines.

Those who wish to get jobs as Crane Operators must be physically fit, detail oriented, precise, safety conscious, and able to work harmoniously as part of a team.  They must have good balance, good eye-hand and foot coordination, and the ability to judge both vertical and horizontal distances.  They must be mechanically inclined, comfortable working at heights, and able to take direction.

Crane Operators must always inspect their equipment before use.  They will also check the surrounding site, and the securing of the load.  They will oversee the set-up or dismantling of mobile units and check all systems for safety.  Crane Operators may receive directions either while still on the ground or through hand signals or by radio.  They lengthen or lower the retractable boom and raise or lower the boom hooks to lift, raise, lower, or move whatever is required.

There are three types of cranes in common use.  A mobile crane is permanently mounted on a ‘crawler’, a large heavy vehicle that moves the crane from site to site.  A tower crane is firmly bolted to a concrete slab.  It may be permanent or may be dismantled and secured at another site.  A overhead crane, or ‘bridge’ crane is used mainly in manufacturing and remains on location until the job is complete.  It is often seen in in automobile manufacturing.

Education

If you are interested in becoming a Crane Operator, you must first get your high school diploma or GED.  Make sure to include courses in English, mathematics, shop, and any courses available that will teach you mechanics, or mechanical drawing.

While in high school, get all the experience you can working in the construction industry.

After high school you will want to get some formal training in crane operation.  This may be available in vocational schools, trade schools, or community colleges.  Make sure the program you choose is geared toward operation of the type of crane in which you are interested.  Also, make sure the course you choose is accredited.

The best way to enter the job market is to get an apprenticeship.  This will give you both formal and hands-on training in crane operation.  You will also earn a salary as you learn.  There are a variety of apprenticeship programs available.  Most last from three to four years.  Make sure the program you choose will enable you to get certified.

Many states now require Crane Operators to be licensed.  To get a license, you must be eighteen years of age, in good physical health, and drug free.  You must also pass an exam covering crane operation and safety procedures.  You will need to be re-licensed every few years.

Get your certification.  This may not be required but it is a concrete testament to you skill and knowledge and will ensure that you are eligible for the best jobs, with the highest salaries.   You will need to write a certification exam, covering general crane operation, as well as the operation of the specified crane of your choice.  Because of the rapid advances in technology, on-going education for periodic re-certification is required.

For More Information on certification, go to the National Commission For The Certification Of Crane Operators at the site below.

http://www.ats-specialized-training.com/certification.php