Crane operator

Crane operators operate different types of cranes such as mobile and tower cranes, to move large and heavy materials and equipment.

Work activities

Crane operators operate various types of cranes to lift, move and load large or heavy pieces of equipment or materials. Cranes are normally located on building sites, in heavy engineering works or in ports. Operators may work on mobile cranes that are taken to and from sites on a regular basis. Operators might also work on tower cranes. These are the very large cranes which are used to lift heavy materials, such as steel and concrete. Crane operation is a highly skilled job. Operators are given instructions from the ground either through signals or a two-way radio. Operators may also carry out routine daily maintenance of equipment. Crane operators must wear protective clothing such as a safety helmet, ear-protectors and outdoor wear.

Being able to read, write and speak Welsh may be an advantage when you’re looking for work in Wales.

Personal qualities and skills

Crane operators need to:

• Have a good head for heights.
• Be aware of safety issues.
• Have good practical skills.
• Be physically fit, as you must climb to reach the cab.
• Have mechanical skills for the basic servicing of equipment.
• You also need good eyesight and you will need a full driving licence.

This job might not be suitable for people who have skin conditions, such as eczema, or breathing complaints, such as asthma.

Pay and opportunities

The pay rates given are approximate. Crane operators earn in the range of £20,000 - £37,000, depending on experience.

Crane operators work a 37-42-hour week. Overtime, including Saturday working, may be available.

Employers are crane hire firms and building, construction and civil engineering companies. Opportunities for crane operators occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

One way into this career is via an intermediate apprenticeship as a lifting technician.

There are also various relevant qualifications available from organisations like City & Guilds and Edexcel. These courses may be in a general subject area, such as construction.

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS): For most building companies, you’ll need a CSCS card to work on site. These cards show that you are qualified to do the work you’ve been employed for.

Apprenticeships will usually involve work- and college-based training. You will also receive training in subjects like health and safety.

With experience, it may be possible to work towards managerial roles, e.g. construction site manager. Some people in this career train to use other types of equipment/vehicles.

Qualifications

Entry requirements vary. You do not always need educational qualifications to enter this type of work. For an intermediate apprenticeships, however, you will need GCSEs in maths and English – although if you don’t have these, you may be able to complete them as you undertake your apprenticeship.

To enter a City & Guilds or BTEC level 2 course in construction, you’ll usually need at least four GCSEs at grade 4-9.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Late entry is common, especially for those with related skills, for example, as a building, mechanical or plant operative.

Related careers

• Construction plant operator
• Forklift driver