Here Comes The Boom Crane - What It Takes To Become A Crane Operator

Crane operators are responsible for lifting and transporting heavy objects using cranes. There are several different types of cranes a person can use, depending on the size of the object and building, such as tower cranes, mobile cranes, and overhead cranes. A crane operator does not have to have a special education in a secondary school but there are certain training programs and apprenticeships that the operators must complete in order to learn the skills needed to properly operate the cranes.

What type of duties does the crane operator have?

The type of duties depends on the work site, but the standard duties that crane operators have are:

• Performing basic crane maintenance on the crane, like lubricating and cleaning

• Assembling tower cranes on site

• Inspecting the cranes and calculating capacities

• Operating the crane to make it life, move, and set equipment or objects in place

What type of certificates or licenses are required?

The type of certificates and licensure will depend on the state that you live in. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics states that many states require crane operators to be licensed in order to operate any crane in that state. The process for getting a license involves passing a physical examination and a written examination, as well as passing a demonstration of safe crane operation. The National Commission for Certification of Crane Operators has a list of states that they require crane operators to pass their practical and written examinations before operating cranes.

What type of apprenticeships are offered?

Most of a crane operators training is on the job experience. Crane operators work on construction sites, shipping and receiving ports, and manufacturing industries. They hone their skill through everyday training at the site. Others will enter into special apprenticeships through their state and employer. Most apprenticeships are three to four years long. Once the apprentice graduates the program, they are recognized as a trained apprentice and must be paid a certain pay wage set by the state.

Conclusion

If you are interested in being a crane operator, the best thing you can do is apply for any available training programs offered in your area. Look for companies that work with the apprentice programs in the state. If you don't have any training, find businesses that will provide on the job training. You can build your job experience with the company while completing the necessary criteria for apprenticeship. Once you have enough experience, you can become certified.

Contact a company like American Equipment Inc for more information and assistance.