A Career -
Not Just a Job

When you work with cranes in the load handling industry, you are part of a team building something together. And in our line of work, there are always new things to learn and new projects to build. No day is ever the same as the last. Surrounded by an experienced team, you’ll learn from the best so you will one day be your best.

See below to explore the roles and opportunities in the industry, and download the PDF to get started mapping your career path.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Working with cranes is challenging, but at the end of the day, you’ll have the satisfaction of building something that will last.

Are cranes in your future?
Take our 3-minute quiz to see if you have what it takes.
Take the Quiz Now!

There’s a path and a position for you

Click on the positions below to learn more details about each role, and check out the career path to discover even more careers in the crane industry.

EXPLORE ALL ROLES

Mobile Crane Operator

Tower Crane Operator

Articulating Crane Operator

Rigger

Signalperson

Telehandler Operator

Overhead Crane Operator

Service Truck Crane Operator

Dedicated Pile Driver Operator

Digger Derrick Operator

Drill Rig Operator

Lift Director

Crane Technician / Mechanic

Crane Inspector

Crane Engineer

Concrete Pump Operator

Crane Training Instructor

Crane Sales Representative

Crane Supervisor / Foreman

Map Your Career Path

Take your future to new heights. With little-to-no experience or decades in another profession, there's a path & position for you. Discover a career path in the crane industry!

I am hardworking, enjoy seeing results, like problem-solving, and am looking for a career, not just a job.

OR

For example: having a CDL, operating heavy equipment or trucks, working on a construction site, military service, and/or am over 21.

GETTING STARTED

If you have little to no experience and/or are under 21, there are several jobs that will help you get the experience and skills to start your journey.

  • General Construction Worker

    A General Construction Worker performs a variety of tasks on construction sites, including building, repairing, and maintaining structures, operating machinery, and ensuring safety standards are met. They work under the direction of supervisors to complete projects efficiently and accurately, often requiring physical stamina and a basic understanding of construction methods.

  • General Equipment Yard/Shop Worker

    A General Equipment Yard/Shop Worker is responsible for maintaining and organizing equipment, tools, and materials in the yard and shop, ensuring they are clean, functional, and ready for use. They assist with loading and unloading items, perform basic repairs and maintenance, and support overall operations to ensure smooth workflow and safety compliance.

  • Military Service

    A person in military service serves their country by performing various duties related to national defense, including operating and maintaining equipment, engaging in combat, and supporting logistical and administrative functions. They undergo rigorous training, follow strict protocols, and work in diverse environments to ensure the security and effectiveness of their unit and mission.

  • Mechanic Assistant

    A Mechanic Assistant supports mechanics by performing basic tasks such as maintaining tools, preparing work areas, and assisting with repairs and maintenance of vehicles or machinery. They help diagnose issues, procure parts, and ensure that all safety and procedural guidelines are followed in the workshop.

  • General Industry Worker

    A General Industry Worker performs a variety of tasks within a manufacturing or production environment, including operating machinery, assembling products, and maintaining a clean and safe workspace. They follow standard procedures and quality control measures to ensure efficient and accurate production while supporting overall operations.

  • Truck/Delivery Driver with CDL

    A Truck/Delivery Driver with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) transports goods and materials over long and short distances, ensuring timely and safe deliveries to specified locations. They inspect and maintain their vehicles, adhere to traffic laws and safety regulations, and manage delivery paperwork and logs accurately.

Training, certification, and on-the-job experience

Entry Level Positions

If you have some work experience, there are several positions that can be a next step along the path by providing relevant skills and job tasks and/or are entry level jobs in the crane industry.

  • Rigger

    A rigger is responsible for preparing, assembling, and securing the equipment and materials to be lifted by cranes or other lifting machinery.

    View Role Details
  • Signalperson

    A crane signalperson is responsible for communicating with the crane operator to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of loads on construction sites or industrial settings.

    View Role Details
  • Telehandler Operator

    A telehandler operator is responsible for operating a specialized lifting and handling machine known as a telehandler, which combines the features of a forklift with those of a crane.

    View Role Details
  • Welder

    A Welder fabricates and repairs metal structures and components by applying welding techniques, including MIG, TIG, and arc welding. They read and interpret blueprints, maintain equipment, and ensure high-quality, precise welds while adhering to safety standards.

  • Iron Worker

    An Iron Worker installs and assembles structural steel frameworks, working at great heights to erect buildings, bridges, and other structures. They cut, position, and secure steel components using tools and machinery, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations.

  • Heavy Equipment Repair Technician

    A Heavy Equipment Repair technician diagnoses, repairs, and maintains a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, including excavators, loaders, and cranes. They use specialized tools and technical knowledge to troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently.

  • Crane Technician/Mechanic

    Crane technicians or mechanics are trained to inspect, repair, and maintain cranes to ensure they function safely and efficiently

    View Role Details
  • Heavy Equipment Operator

    A Heavy Equipment Operator operates large machinery, such as excavators and bulldozers, to perform tasks like excavation and grading on construction sites. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient use of equipment, performing routine maintenance, and adhering to safety regulations and project specifications.

Training, certification, and on-the-job experience

Field Operator Positions

With experience and training, there are several excellent and rewarding careers available as an operator in the crane industry.

  • Mobile Crane Operator

    A mobile crane operator is responsible for operating mobile cranes, which are versatile lifting machines mounted on wheels or crawlers, used to lift, move, and position heavy materials and equipment in construction, manufacturing, and other industries.

    View Role Details
  • Tower Crane Operator

    A tower crane operator is tasked with safely operating tower cranes, which are tall, fixed cranes used predominantly in construction projects to lift heavy materials and equipment to various heights.

    View Role Details
  • Overhead Crane Operator

    An overhead crane operator is responsible for operating overhead cranes, which are typically used in industrial settings to lift, move, and position heavy materials and equipment within a facility.

    View Role Details
  • Articulating Crane Operator

    An articulating crane operator is responsible for operating articulated cranes, also known as knuckle-boom cranes, to lift, move, and position heavy loads in various industries such as construction, forestry, shipping, and material handling.

    View Role Details
  • Service Truck Operator

    A service truck crane operator drives a service truck to job sites and operates the crane to lift, move, and position materials and equipment. They ensure safe and efficient operations by understanding load capacities, following safety protocols, and performing routine inspections and maintenance on the crane and truck.

    View Role Details
  • Digger Derrick Operator

    A digger derrick operator is responsible for operating a specialized truck-mounted machine equipped with a crane and an auger used in construction, utility maintenance, and other industries.

    View Role Details
  • Dedicated Pile Driver Operator

    A dedicated pile driver operator specializes in operating pile-driving equipment, which is used in construction to install foundational support structures such as piles, posts, or beams into the ground.

    View Role Details
  • Drill Rig Operator

    A drill rig operator is responsible for operating drilling equipment, typically mounted on trucks or tracks, used in various industries such as construction, mining, geotechnical exploration, and oil and gas exploration.

    View Role Details
  • Concrete Pump Operator

    A concrete pump operator is responsible for operating concrete pumping equipment, which is used to transfer liquid concrete from a mixer truck to the desired location at construction sites.

    View Role Details

Training, certification, and on-the-job experience

Experienced Field Positions

There are several more advanced and leadership positions available in the field for those with additional years of experience and expertise.

  • Crane Supervisor/Foreman

    Crane supervisors or foremen oversee crane operations at construction sites or industrial facilities.

    View Role Details
  • Lift Director

    A lift director is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of crane and lifting operations on a construction site or industrial facility. .

    View Role Details
  • Crane Inspector

    A crane inspector is responsible for evaluating and assessing the condition, safety, and compliance of cranes and lifting equipment according to regulatory standards and industry guidelines.

    View Role Details
  • Crane Sales Representative

    Crane sales representatives work for manufacturers or dealerships to sell cranes and related equipment to construction companies, industrial firms, and other customers.

    View Role Details
  • Construction Project Manager

    A Construction Project Manager oversees construction projects from start to finish, coordinating schedules, resources, and budgets to ensure timely and successful completion. They liaise with clients, contractors, and stakeholders, manage project risks, and ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.

Experienced Non-Field Positions

There are also more advanced and leadership positions available that are not in the field for those with additional years of experience and expertise.

  • Crane Training Instructor

    Training instructors provide instruction for certification programs for crane operators, riggers, and other personnel involved in crane operations.

    View Role Details
  • Logistics/Dispatch

    A Logistics/Dispatch professional coordinates the movement of goods and services, ensuring timely and efficient delivery by managing schedules, routes, and communication with drivers and clients. They track shipments, resolve logistical issues, and optimize processes to enhance overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

  • Safety Coordinator

    A Safety Coordinator develops and implements safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and compliance with regulatory requirements. They conduct regular safety inspections, provide training to employees, and investigate accidents to identify and address potential hazards.

  • Operations Coordinator

    An Operations Coordinator manages daily operations by coordinating tasks, resources, and personnel to ensure smooth and efficient workflow. They monitor performance metrics, resolve operational issues, and implement processes to improve productivity and achieve organizational goals.

  • Safety Auditor

    A Safety Auditor conducts thorough evaluations of safety practices and procedures within an organization to ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards. They identify potential hazards, recommend improvements, and provide detailed reports to enhance overall workplace safety and risk management.

Experienced Degree Positions

If you earn a bachelors or masters degree, there are even more careers available in the crane industry.

  • Crane Engineer

    Crane engineers design and develop cranes and lifting equipment.

    View Role Details
  • Safety Supervisor

    A Safety Supervisor oversees and enforces safety policies and procedures to ensure a secure work environment and compliance with regulatory standards. They conduct safety inspections, provide training to staff, and address safety concerns to prevent accidents and minimize risk.

  • Operations Manager

    An Operations Manager oversees daily business operations, managing resources, staff, and processes to ensure efficiency and achieve organizational goals. They analyze performance metrics, implement strategies for improvement, and coordinate between departments to optimize productivity and operational effectiveness.

  • C-Suite

    C-Suite executives, including roles such as CEO, CFO, and COO, provide strategic leadership and direction for the organization, setting long-term goals and making high-level decisions to drive company success. They oversee departmental functions, manage senior teams, and collaborate with the board of directors to ensure overall business growth and operational excellence.

GET CERTIFIED

Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safety and Professionalism

VALUE OF CCO CERTIFICATION

CCO Certification (CCO) ensures the safety and proficiency of load handling equipment operators across the United States. Certification by CCO provides significant benefits to certificants and employers alike.

Achieving CCO certification broadens and enhances job opportunities and demonstrates a commitment to safety and professionalism. CCO certified individuals are recognized as being knowledgeable and skilled, making them more attractive to potential employers.

Employers benefit from a certified workforce through reduced risk of accidents and losses, leading to safer job sites and potentially lower insurance costs. The consistent training and verification of skills provided by CCO certification programs help maintain high standards across the industry.

By meeting federal OSHA regulations and industry standards, CCO certification assures both the public and industry stakeholders that certified operators are competent and qualified, contributing to overall safety and efficiency in load handling operations.

Learn More

Translate »