What Is a Tower Crane Operator and How to Become One
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What Does a Tower Crane Operator Do?
A tower crane operator uses heavy equipment to lift and move construction materials and equipment around a job site. As a tower crane operator, you need specialized training in how to safely operate a crane. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers a 10-hour training program, and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) provides tower crane certification. While operating your tower crane, you must follow established load limits for your heavy equipment, watch signalers to control crane movement, and communicate with your crew via radio.
How to Become a Tower Crane Operator
To become a tower crane operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. Though some jobs require additional education, such as a vocational school or union training program certificate, some crane operator jobs only require a high school diploma and provide on the job training. Crane operator training programs are available at vocational and technical schools, heavy equipment operator unions, and community colleges. Apprenticeships are a great way to gain experience after these programs, so you are prepared to take the written and practical crane operator certification exam, which many jobs require.
