Working in construction is a worthwhile profession to pursue. Whether you are looking for a short-term gig, or more long-term pursuits, it is a viable career choice. This mainly comes down to the field’s variety; there are a myriad of fields to get involved in.
Many pursue general labour roles, due to their entry-level requirements and flexibility. For more certified positions, such as a crane operator, you’ll need extensive training. However, the perks of this specific role are excellent, especially if you want consistent work.
If you want to become a crane operator, the following are six job requirements on how to become a crane operator:
Requirement #1: Pre-Application
Like any sort of career one chooses to pursue in life, you’ll have to do your research. This entails discovering people in the field, who can provide you with insight into the industry. Construction is no different; you’ll have to ask yourself some initial questions. For example, in order to become a crane operator, do you work well with machines?
Or, how adept are you working with your hands? Construction work is a very labour-intensive field, and requires you to be at your most energetic. Operating a crane will require the utmost in focus and expertise. If you believe that you can train your body and mind to fit this ideal, you are on the right track.
Requirement #2: Knowledge
In order to become a crane operator, you need to be at your best while in the field. However, you’ll also be obliged to know the vehicle inside-and-out. Since there are different types of crane vehicles out there, it is best to become familiar with all of them. This comes down to you potentially transitioning into different vehicles, over the course of your tenure.
Crane vehicles usually come in three variations; boom trucks, mobile cranes, and tower cranes. Each of them will have their own, respective training, in order to meet the demands of the construction project. The more you familiarize yourself with each model, the better your chances of gaining employment. You should also have the knowledge about various crane attachments and their practical uses.
Requirement #3: Enrolment
One of the most important preliminary steps for becoming a crane operator involves getting the right training. In the initial steps, this largely involves enrolling into a specialized program or apprenticeship. Depending on the type of education you pursue, you’ll have to spend a good amount of time learning.
For the most part, each training program takes somewhere between six to twelve weeks. The best type of learning is the type where you can learn on the ground. That is why taking apprenticeships are recommended; you’ll learn faster, but at a more effective rate.
Requirement #4: Certification
Many employers in construction will mandate certification, especially for crane-related operations. This is not without good reason either; being certified means you will take the job seriously. Plus, it brings a sense of fulfillment, after all the months of learning and on-the-ground training.
Certification also comes down to a number of factors. For example, depending on the crane vehicle you want to operate, you’ll have to write a specific exam. Some regions, in addition, will have different expectations for different versions of certification. Do your research, and pursue the route that works for you.
Requirement #5: Work Week
Typical work week hours in construction hinges on the standard forty hours. As a crane operator, this can fluctuate, depending on the project you are working on. However, you may be requested to work overtime in some scenarios. For the most part, eight hours a day and five days a week will be the norm.
As mentioned previously, this type of work is very labour-intensive. Working in this role can get exhausting after a long stretch of time. Don’t let this deter you, though! Get a good night’s worth of rest, and eat healthy meals during the day. You’d be surprised at how focused you remain, after a long day of crane operating.
Requirement #6: Weather Conditions
As a crane operator, you already know of the risky setting you’ll be working in. This, coupled with other, external risks, means that you’ll have to be prepared. Crane operators are expected to work outdoors at all times, no matter the weather. So, you’ll have to ensure that you can handle that environment.
Construction projects must be completed in a set timeframe. As such, each, subsequent day cannot afford to be wasted. If you can function outside, even with inclement weather, you will find success working in this position. Just be sure to dress well, for all types of weather conditions!
If you don’t mind conducting manual work, operating a crane is a great role to pursue in construction. The salary is great, and the hours can be flexible if you request them to be. Just ensure that you learn consistently, and practice safety. That way, the entire team can work as one, cohesive unit!
