Industries, including manufacturing, construction, and energy, rely on cranes for efficient operations involving lifting and moving heavy materials for building, assembly, and resource extraction work. Individuals pursuing a career as a crane operator can enjoy a rewarding and sought-after role that requires training and certification to support safe operations.
We explore how to become a certified crane operator, typical responsibilities on the job, and reasons to follow this career path below.
What Is a Crane Operator?
Crane operators utilize specialized cranes to lift, maneuver, and position heavy materials within designated worksites. Safety and precision are at the core of every task a crane operator undertakes. This role requires extensive training, certification, and an understanding of how the equipment works.
The following are common day-to-day crane operator responsibilities.
Planning the Lift
Crane operators coordinate with project managers to assess schedules and determine daily work objectives. Lift planning involves specifying the load's weight and dimensions. Operators must analyze the lift path and assess the following:
- Weather conditions
- Site restrictions
- Accessibility considerations
- Crane capacity or reach limitations
With all lift capacity requirements and potential worksite obstructions in mind, operators determine which crane is best for a particular application. They may also communicate with the signal person to coordinate the lift.
Pre-Operational Inspections
Before using the crane, operators perform checks to assess the equipment's working condition. They must conduct thorough inspections of critical crane parts, such as cables, brakes, hooks, and outriggers. This process helps operators identify mechanical or safety concerns that may compromise machine operation.
They also verify the crane's lifting capacity at different radii to verify that the crane can handle the load without overstressing the machine.
Crane Operation
Prioritizing precision, operators manipulate the crane for lifting, hauling, and lowering loads across the work zone. Some teams utilize a signal person during crane operation who offers direction to operators via hand signals or verbal commands to support an efficient lift.
Crane operators monitor crane performance indicators, from wire rope condition to stabilizer pressure, during operation. They are responsible for identifying signs of instability or mechanical issues, such as excessive crane sway, tilting, or load shifts.
Post-Operational Procedures
Following operations, crane operators must park the equipment in designated areas. They secure the crane against environmental hazards, such as wind, so it is ready for use when needed next. They must have completed documentation, such as an operational log or inspection checklist, and report any concerns with the machine.
How Do You Become a Crane Operator?
The following criteria are necessary for an individual pursuing a career as a crane operator:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED)
- Complete specialized training
- Acquire National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certification
The Certification and Training Process
NCCCO certification is paramount to becoming a crane operator with no experience. The process involves a written exam to assess the individual's understanding of crane safety regulations, general operational considerations, and mechanical principles.
After completing the written test, potential operators need to pass a practical exam. This exam involves demonstrating one's ability to safely maneuver the crane and efficiently handle loads.
Following these examinations, operators need to complete crane operator safety training. This training should include operational best practices to minimize the risk of accidents and foster a secure workplace. It will include insights about risk assessments and how to respond to emergency situations involving the crane. Training should come from a reputable provider and subject matter experts who have an understanding of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Crane, Derrick, and Hoist Safety regulations and NCCCO requirements.
Once an individual completes training, they are prepared for NCCCO certification — America's most recognized option. With this certification, a person can obtain the necessary license to become a professional operator by trade.
These acknowledgments can demonstrate an operator's skills, expertise, and capabilities to potential employers. Licenses must be renewed periodically to maintain professional status and help operators stay updated on industry standards.
5 Reasons to Become a Crane Operator
Becoming a crane operator can be a lucrative career path. Explore reasons for pursuing this role below.
1. Job Stability
Cranes are critical pieces of equipment, making this a high-demand job across many industries, from construction to mining. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth through 2033 for crane operators, supporting job security.
2. Engaging Work
Crane operation involves hands-on work, which is ideal for individuals who prefer physical labor over a desk job. Operators get to experience tangible results on the worksite, seeing projects through to completion.
Crane operators also engage with other professionals on the job, including riggers, signal persons, supervisors, project managers, and engineers.
3. Diverse Working Environments
An operator could work at an urban port one week and a rural construction site the next. They get to work outside and tackle projects in different settings, which keeps the job interesting.
4. Potential for Travel
Becoming a crane operator may be an attractive career path for individuals who enjoy travel. Some employers will accept diverse projects, creating opportunities to work in new places.
5. Career Advancement
Crane operators can refine their skills and advance to higher-paying roles. They may transition into positions such as supervisor or crane manager. Career advancement opportunities make this career more appealing to individuals who are interested in rewarding work.
How CICB Helps You Get Started
Turn to CICB when your team needs crane operator training. We provide customized training to meet requirements for crane operator compliance to enhance your crew's skills and support workplace safety.
When you work with CICB, your business receives training from certified, full-time instructors. We have a proven track record, having helped thousands of workers with hands-on programs designed to develop the skills needed to perform crane operator duties safely. The team at CICB customizes operator training specifically to your business's availability, training goals, and site considerations. We work closely with you to choose the right strategy for your workers.
Contact CICB for Crane Operator Training Today
CICB has provided businesses with industry-leading crane operator training since 1969. Our experts can train at our locations across the United States, on-site at your business, and with our international partners.
We have more than 50 trainings available from CICB that range from a single day to three weeks. Your business will receive a dedicated account manager, and our subject matter experts will share an action plan tailored to your needs. We can help your crew become OSHA-compliant and industry-ready to increase productivity for your business.
Contact us to connect with our experts and request training today.
About The Author
CICB’s Texas Operations Manager John O’Connor, has held the position of senior instructor/inspector for CICB since 2006. He has a total of 28 years of experience in training, inspections, operations, planning, maintenance, administration, and personnel management for various types of lifting and earth moving equipment. He maintains a high level of proficiency in teaching crane and heavy equipment operations, inspections, and rigging using best practices, applicable OSHA, ASME and API standards and regulations. O’Connor holds NCCCO certifications for Operator, Inspector, Rigger, Signal Person, and Lift Director. He is also a NCCCO accredited Practical Examiner for Mobile and Articulating Boom Cranes, Overhead Cranes, Rigger, and Signal Person.
