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If you’re looking to get your mobile crane operator certification, you’re making a wise decision. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, in 2024 the average salary of a mobile crane operator was $80,674. That is a life-changing salary, one that could make a huge impact on your life. And prospects for mobile crane operators are positive. Demand is expected to grow, with a projected increase of 6.9% annually between 2024 and 2032.
Take the next step in your career and earn your mobile crane operator certification. Let’s dive into the duties and responsibilities of a mobile crane operator, and then we’ll see how Performance Training Solutions (PTS) can help prepare you to enter this exciting industry.
What Does a Mobile Crane Operator Do?
A mobile crane operator is an expert in moving and operating cranes, which are used to raise and lower items, like shipping containers or building materials. A crane operator needs to be skilled in operating this difficult piece of machinery, as well as well-versed in proper safety protocols. In addition to operational techniques, you’ll need to understand how to calculate load weights and capacities, as well as how to follow site plans. You’ll also need to perform preventative maintenance on your equipment and log your work.
There are several different types of cranes, although two popular options are the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab crane and the telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. The mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab crane is flexible and rotates. It can handle a wide variety of lifts and is used to navigate tight spaces. The telescopic boom fixed-cab crane is compact but the cab is stationary.
If you’re ready to become a mobile crane operator, you can expect to find opportunities in a diverse range of industries. Commonly, they work in the construction industry, working on both commercial and residential projects. There are opportunities for mobile crane operation in the mining industry as well, working in quarry operations or open pit mining. You could also work in the energy industry maintaining power plants, or installing solar panels. Consider operating a railroad crane in the transportation industry. No matter what industry you decide to join, earning your mobile crane operator certification is imperative for your success in this career.
What You Need to Know About the Mobile Crane Operator Certification Process
The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is an organization that is dedicated to safer standards in crane operation. An NCCCO certification is an in-demand certification because it demonstrates to employers that you understand important safety procedures, leading to fewer on-site accidents.
An NCCCO certification can improve your job prospects and salary growth. The salary for an NCCCO certified crane operator could be about $85,000. This mobile crane operator certification is important for your success in the industry. But what does it entail?
First, you’ll need to attend a qualified mobile crane operator training program that will prepare you for a long-lasting career. Your program should give you plenty of opportunities for practical, in-the-seat training, as well as classroom instruction that can prepare you for the NCCCO certification exam.
For your NCCCO certification, you’ll need to meet certain requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Comply with the NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
- Pass Written Examinations
- Pass Practical Examination
- Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics
You’ll also need to pass a core written exam, which is in multiple-choice format. Then you’ll need to pass one or more specialty exams, which include lattice boom cranes, telescopic boom cranes (swing cab), and telescopic boom cranes (fixed cab). This mobile crane operator certification is valid for five years.
PTS Can Prepare You for a Mobile Crane Operator Career
At PTS, we have experience providing individuals with high-quality mobile crane operation training. With our mobile crane operation course, we prepare you to operate different types of cranes, as well as basic safety procedures and preventative maintenance. You’ll also learn wire rope and basic rigging practices. Our three-week program will help you gain the necessary skills to find success as a mobile crane operator. We prepare you to pass the NCCCO exam so you can receive this in-demand mobile crane operator certification.
In addition to our expert training courses, we also have extensive career assistance services because we are invested in your success. We assist you with finding employment opportunities, and we also welcome graduates back any time for a brief refresher on any piece of equipment on which they’ve been trained and credentialed. We’re prepared to help you find success any way we can.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards earning your mobile crane operator certification, get in touch with the team at PTS today. Earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship when you schedule a tour with us.