What is an overhead crane operator and how to become one

Key steps to become an overhead crane operator

1. Explore overhead crane operator education requirements

   Most common overhead crane operator degrees

   High School Diploma

   56.0 %

   Associate

   14.7 %

   Diploma

   13.6 %

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2. Start to develop specific overhead crane operator skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Cranes	18.86%
   Overhead Cranes	9.02%
   Determines Safety	8.62%
   Steel Coils	6.85%
   Hoisting	6.18%

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3. Complete relevant overhead crane operator training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New overhead crane operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an overhead crane operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real overhead crane operator resumes.

4. Gain additional overhead crane operator certifications

   Overhead crane operator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific overhead crane operator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

   The most common certifications for overhead crane operators include Overhead Crane Operator and Commercial Driver License (CDL).

   More About Certifications

5. Research overhead crane operator duties and responsibilities

   • Operate traveling overhead crane to lift, move, and position loads of raw steel material using a hook hoisting attachment.
   • Loaded/Unload trucks safely using overhead cranes and/or mobile equipment.
   • Certify crane operator and heavy equipment operator NCCCO certify TWIC certify MSHA training course
   • Operate TLL to hang pipe, values and other material in racks for site construction.

6. Prepare your overhead crane operator resume

   When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your overhead crane operator resume.

   You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an overhead crane operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

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7. Apply for overhead crane operator jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for an overhead crane operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams