Tower crane operator is a dream job if you like hands-on work and keep a calm head around heavy machinery.It is possible to plan ahead to reach your career goals.You will need to finish trade school and complete an apprenticeship before you can work as a crane operator.If you have gained enough education and experience, you can apply for a tower crane operator license.
Step 1: You need to finish your high school degree.
You will need a high school diploma to get tower crane certification, but most construction-level jobs don't require a college degree.Return to school for your GED if you don't have a high school degree.Make sure to have a filling breakfast the day of your test, and get plenty of rest before your GED exam.
Step 2: Attend trade school.
Practical knowledge to operate heavy machinery and basic construction skills will be provided by trade schools.You will learn how to read blueprints, install building materials and inspect construction codes.Trade schools can take up to two years to complete.If you have your parents' permission, you can enroll in trade school.
Step 3: A general crane operator training program is required.
You will need to complete a crane operation training program in order to receive most of your training in an apprenticeship.Crane operator programs can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.It will help you pass the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators exam.You will need hands-on learning in most crane operator training programs.
Step 4: An apprenticeship can be entered.
Contact local tower crane operators to inquire if you can become their apprentices after you've finished trade school and specialized operating program.Gaining on-the-job experience and increasing your knowledge of construction work can be achieved through apprenticeship.Depending on what you negotiate with your supervisor, an apprenticeship program can take anywhere from 1-6 years.Construction apprentices are paid a living wage.
Step 5: Enroll in the Tower Crane Operator program.
Tower crane operators are required to receive certification in most US states.Tower crane operators who are certified are preferred by construction companies.To get NCCCO licensure, you need to be at least 18 years old and in good physical health.Operators are required to complete certification within a year.
Step 6: Your body should be in good shape.
You need to pass the physical requirements for the NCCCO tower crane operator certification.Strong optical health as well as keen hearing is required.You will get a psychological evaluation as well.Negative results from a substance abuse test are needed to pass the physical exam.You will be disqualified for certification if you have a history of physical control problems.
Step 7: Pass the exam.
After completing your training program and apprenticeship, you will need to take a written exam on tower crane operation to get your license.Within an hour, the NCCCO exam has 55 multiple-choice questions.You have to meet the physical eligibility requirements before you can take the written exam.Take practice tests and study in the weeks leading up to your exams if you have a hard time with multiple-choice exams.Don't wait until the day of the exam to study.
Step 8: The practical evaluation should be completed.
You can take the CCO Tower Crane Practical Examination after you've passed the written exam.You will be briefed on a number of tasks before the evaluation.In front of a supervisor, you will complete situations you'll be in as a tower crane operator.Your supervisor will be watching for unsafe procedures during the exam.
Step 9: Adhere to the NCCCO Code of Ethics and Substance Abuse Policy.
Tower crane operators have to agree to comply with the codes before they can be certified.Guidelines for operators to work safely with the environment and other construction workers can be found in the NCCCO Code of Ethics.To comply with the Substance Abuse Policy, you must not use a substance that would impair your ability.Call in sick if you get an over-the-counter medicine.You should not risk the safety of your fellow workers.
Step 10: While training, work entry level construction jobs.
While you're in trade school, you can work as a general laborer for a construction company.Gaining construction experience early on will help you get an internship.Most general laborer positions don't require a high school degree, so you can start working while you're in school.
Step 11: You can apply.
There are jobs for tower crane operator in your area.Make sure to list your training programs on your resume.If you completed a project as an apprenticeship, describe it to the construction company.List any other construction jobs you've worked, like general laborers or specialized workers.Employers like applicants with a wide range of experience.
Step 12: You have to work hard to advance as a crane operator.
You can apply for higher-level jobs after years of experience as a tower crane operator.You can work as a supervisor if you keep your certification.You could even take on an apprenticeship of your own.If you want to go to university for a BS in Construction Engineering, you have to have a bachelor's degree.This will make you eligible for advanced positions within the construction company.
Step 13: As necessary, renew your license.
You will need to have your license renewed every five years.You will need to pass a 30-question test within 45 minutes to be recertified for tower crane operators.The license of tower crane operators will need to be renewed by the end of the year.There are two attempts to pass the written exam for recertification candidates.