How Long Does It Take To Become A Crane OperatorIf you want to enter this profession, the very first thing you might ask is how long does it take to become a crane operator?

Crane operators move heavy materials and objects and they usually work in the construction sites, shipyards, container yards, or in factories. In order to these meticulous works, one has to undergo a professional training.

To become a crane operator you usually have to obtain a certain certification. The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) provides such which is nationally-recognized.

In order to get the certification, you need to undergo a training course. The training usually lasts for 4 to 8 weeks, some last for several months depending on the type of crane you want to get certification for.

And you have to take the initial training at the trade school or community college near your area that provides such training course.

The school will supply you the theoretical knowledge and practical experience you need to make you prepared for the taking of the NCCCO certification exams.

However, if you have prior understanding and familiarity operating cranes or if you have been in an apprenticeship or on-the-job training, your probability of you passing the certification is much higher.

 

 

Is The Training All It Takes To Become A Crane Operator?

No, of course, there are some prerequisites you need to attain to be a crane operator.

The initial training is your initial step. You still have to go through rigorous apprenticeship training that usually lasts about 1 to 4 years, though you will be paid for doing the apprenticeship training. If you want to apply for an apprenticeship, you can contact your local International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) branch, find out more here.

To get accepted as an apprentice, you need to have NCCCO certification, as one of the requirements. Though it is voluntary, you will benefit significantly from it if you have one. You usually have to pass the written exam and skill test to prove your ability and proficiency in the safe operation of the crane in order to be CCO-certified.

Depending on the state or city you want to work in, there are federal requirements you need to comply with. Check here to find the states and cities that have a separate licensing requirement.

 

 

Accredited Crane Operator Testing Organization

National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) – if you have been in the crane training industry, you might have heard of NCCCO a long time ago. In fact, NCCCO has been around since 1995. This organization was established by people in the industry to lay the certification standard and develop a training program for crane and lifting training. It is the one we commonly heard when it comes to crane operator certification because their certification is nationally-recognized. When you are certified by this organization, the term they usually called to you is CCO-certified. The CCO-certified individuals are the most sought-after by the employers.

Crane Institute Certification (CIC) – it was founded in 2007. though it was more recently founded than NCCCO, it has the back of the examiners, testing locations, and satisfied clients. CIC has the same objective as NCCCO – to provide assessment and skills testing for crane operators, riggers, and signal persons. They accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

Individuals, who are aiming to get certification, must have to go through the written and practical tests administered by the testing organizations.

Certification is important to reduce risk or probability of unwanted incidence in the workplace, improve the performance of the workers, minimize the occurrence of accidents and to give due recognition to the qualified individuals.

If you have the certification, it tells the employers you have what it takes to become a crane operator. You have enough knowledge and practical experience to perform your job safely.

It is all up to you which testing organization you would choose if you want to be a certified crane operator. Both will be recognized by the industry.

Requirements That You Need

  • NCCCO certification is one of the most important requirements that you need to be in possession if you want to into this job. Without it, even you have the all the other requirements, the chance of getting a job is slim.

  • Licensing requirement is another thing you need to have if you will work in a state or city that requires the operator to be licensed. The process of getting the license varies depending on the state. But the process typically involves passing series of tests such knowledge test and practical assessment so that you can demonstrate your knowledge and skill operating crane.

  • Completion of an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training – the chance of having full-time employment drastically increase if you have been trained by the union or completed an on-the-job training. This proves you have the in-the-field experience and have demonstrated already your skills. If you completed apprenticeship training, your employment offer will be much higher.

  • You need to have at least a high school diploma or GED certificate proving your secondary education.

  • You need to be at the right age of 21 years old.

 

 

To Finalize This

The length of time it takes to become a crane operator will depend on the type of crane you want to want to be trained on. It takes about several weeks to several months.

Again, there are other factors that come into play if you want to be a crane operator. These include the certification you need to have and the requirements you need to attain.

You are most likely be hired as a crane operator if you have those prerequisites.

Again, take the time and exert the effort. You will reap the fruit of your labor later one.


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