As a crane driver, you have to be able to control machines that are big, bulky and extremely dangerous. They’re utilised for lifting and moving heavy loads and tools for construction sites, quarries, warehouses and ports, so it’s not enough to control the equipment, but also understand and manage these loads correctly. You need to know what chain hoists are required for different applications, whilst you must be able to comfortably get in to different cranes as you can be moved from one site to another, whilst lifting gear on construction sites is regularly updated, so moving with the times is important. There can be many differences between one crane and another, so part of gaining experience is learning how these different machines operate. This in itself can come with a huge learning curve.

In order for someone to become a Crane operator, they must meet the following necessities:

• Been or be familiarised with heavy machines such as excavators.
• An experience on machines and worked in a building site.
• A legal Construction Plant Competency Scheme card.
• A college license in plant operations which is done while still in job but training.
• A C1 or C LGV class qualification if driving cranes on public roads.

Mandatory skills:

• Communication skills.
• The ability to work alone for long periods.
• Group working skills.
• Aptitude to work openly.
• Capability of being attentive to detail.

Roles to perform:

• Working on mobile, overhead or tower cranes.
• Lifting and moving building materials and tools carefully on a building site by operating the controls in the crane cab.
• Following directions given constantly with workers on the ground, who are in charge in giving instructions on what to move and where.

Your everyday work comprises:

• Situating up cranes and confirming out safety checks
• Packing and unpacking lorries
• Moving loads around the site
• Checking sensors that measures wind speed, crane steadiness and load weights
• Doing minor maintenances to machine
• Report any problem to the crane supervisor
• In charge of recording the materials you have shifted.
• Working in a quarry by shifting rocks out of the way to get to the raw materials underneath.

How long to work and environment to work?

Working hours normally ranges from 35-40 hours in a week as with most jobs. But overtime also must meet its condition. Protective equipment such as ear protectors is essential for your health and these are often provided. Once you have experience in the field and a Level 3 Diploma in lifting procedures, you can develop to be a crane supervisor, in charge of directing the operations. Afterwards in advance training you can then possibly hold the position of a site manager. This goes to show that as a crane driver, you not only have an important role, you have one which allows you to progress and develop, especially in the construction sector, so if you’re looking for a new role that comes with plenty of advantages, it could be the role for you.