Thinking of a Job as a Crane Operator?

If you would like to become crane operator, you should become familiar with all the pros and cons of the job, as well as requirements and contradictions. In general, the job of a crane operator is to lift, lower, and move a variety of heavy materials. It may seem an easy task at first sight, but in fact it can be very complicated and definitely requires precision and patience. The scope of operating skills depends on the type of the crane, but in general it is not only about moving the loads accurately. Some cranes run on rails, which means that the driver has to regulate the forward and backward movement of the whole crane, while others require that the cabin of the crane is also maneuvered.

Requirements

To operate a crane safely, a specialized training is indispensable. In some countries also a certification is required to be allowed to work in the job. To start your career, you can apply for an apprenticeship program. In the U.S. such programs are organized by the International Union of Operating Engineers and take up to 4 years. To take part in it, you need to be at least 18, hold a high school diploma and be in good physical condition. Certification is indispensable only in 17 states; nevertheless many employers expect it even if it is not required by law. The most popular are the certificates of National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. NCCCO currently certifies operators of mobile cranes, overhead cranes and tower cranes.

Prospective crane operators must have a basic understanding of math and physics as well as some mechanical aptitude. Additionally, operators should not be afraid of heights, as the crane cabin is usually situated high above the ground. Another necessary quality is the ability to judge distance and heights accurately and good hand-eye coordination as they need to manipulate various buttons, levers and pedals. To be a good crane operator one also needs the capability to work as part of a team because it is necessary to cooperate with workers outside the crane  who give hand signals, for example when hooking and unhooking the loads.

Does it pay?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the average salary for crane operators in 2008 was $45,430. Indeed.com claims that as for May 2010 the average salary was lower – $42,000.  The earnings are strongly connected to work experience. For example in the first one to four years an operator can earn $16.44 and $30.34 per hour, while with 20 years experience one can expect up to $41,78 (according to PayScale.com). The salary depends also on the region – the highest earnings are offered in Alaska, Nevada, Washington and New York.

Working conditions

Crane operators can work at a variety of construction sites, but also in other places where moving of heavy items in necessary:  For example, in companies dealing with metal fabrication or transportation equipment. Cranes are also indispensable at major ports to load and unload cargo. The working conditions of crane operators vary. For example people operating overhead cranes can be exposed to the heat, smoke and gases generated by factories, while those working outside and operating by remote control are exposed to various weather conditions. Fortunately modern cranes have cabins that ensure both comfort and protection.

If you would like to know how it is like to be a crane operator, you should watch this video:

This is a guest post written by the team of Mascus.com. Visit them online if you need to buy new or used cranes.