Crane driver

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could do a college qualification like a Level 2 Certificate in Construction Plant Operations.

This would teach you how to operate different types of construction plant machinery. You could then apply to construction companies for a trainee position.

Entry requirements:

• GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through a lifting technician intermediate apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Work

You could start as a construction site labourer. Once you've got experience of using heavy plant machinery like excavators, you could do training on the job to move into crane operation.

DirectApplication

You could apply directly and learn on the job under the supervision of an experienced crane driver. Some employers may ask for a few GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of building and construction
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• sensitivity and understanding
• observation and recording skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• knowledge of maths
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• active listening skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues

What you'll do:

Crane drivers operate lifting machinery at construction sites, quarries, mining sites, ports and warehouses.

As a crane operator, you'll:

• set up cranes and carry out safety checks
• load and unload lorries
• shift loads around the site
• monitor sensors that measure wind speed, crane stability and load weights
• carry out minor repairs to machinery
• report problems to the crane supervisor
• keep in close contact with workers on the ground to operate safely

Location : You could work on a construction site.
Environment : Your working environment may be at height and noisy.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £37,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends away from home

Career Path:

With experience and further training you could:

• become a crane supervisor, signaller or slinger
• specialise in operating heavy cranes
• work on construction projects all over the world
• get a manager job with responsibility for the day-to-day running of a site