National Crane Operator Certification

Tower cranes sit atop large metal frames.

The demand for crane and tower operators in the United States is expected to decline by 7 percent from 2008 through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite the elimination of around 3,000 jobs for crane operators during that time frame, some job openings will arise due to operators changing jobs and retiring from the field. Gaining national certification as a crane operator from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators can help set operators apart from other applicants, increasing their job opportunities.

Mobile Crane Operator

A mobile crane is mounted on wheels.

Mobile crane operators run heavy cranes mounted on tires that can move from one place to another independently. To qualify for National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certification as a mobile crane operator, applicants must be at least 18 years of age. They must also pass a physical medical examination and gain a medical examiner's certificate from their state's department of transportation.

Candidates begin the certification process by taking a 90-question core written examination. In addition, they must take at least one 26-question written examination in a mobile crane specialty, such as lattice boom crawler or truck cranes or telescopic boom cranes with fixed or swing cabs. Those who successfully pass the written examination must then take a practical exam within 12 months. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their use of a lattice boom or telescopic boom crane. Mobile crane operator certification remains valid for five years.

Tower Crane Operators

Tower crane operators utilize cranes that are stationary and affixed to a tall metal frame. Operators who are 18 years of age or older, pass a physical examination and have department of transportation medical certification can qualify for the NCCCO tower crane operator certification. This type of certification requires the completion of only one written examination. The test consists of 55 multiple-choice questions and lasts for up to 60 minutes. Within 12 months of passing the written test, tower crane operators must complete a practical skills test on one of three types of tower cranes: hammerhead, luffer or self-erecting. The tower crane operator certification lasts for five years.

Overhead Crane Operators

Overhead cranes require operators to move a hook attached to a stationary metal bar using controls mounted inside of a cab or using a remote control. Like other types of certified crane operators, overhead crane operators must be at least 18 years old, pass a physical and hold a transportation-department-issued medical certificate to qualify for NCCCO certification. Unlike mobile or tower crane certifications, overhead crane operators may take their multiple-choice written test and practical skills examinations in whichever order they choose, provided they take the second test within 12 months of passing the first. During the practical skills test, operators can choose to demonstrate proficiency on either cab or remote-controlled overhead cranes. Overhead crane operator certifications are valid for five years.

Articulating Crane Operators

An articulating crane is a specialty type of mobile crane that has a joint in the arm of the crane. NCCCO articulating crane operator certification is for operators who are at least 18 years of age, pass a physical and hold a certificate of health from a state department of transportation. Three written examinations are available for operators: a 65-question test on articulating boom cranes, a 75-question test on boom cranes with winches and a 50-question test on articulating boom loaders. Candidates can take as many of the exams as they wish to gain certification on multiple types of equipment. A practical skills demonstration is necessary for certification. Operators can choose to use a boom loader or crane or both for the demonstration. Articulating crane operator certification lasts for five years.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Material Moving Occupations
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators: Mobile Crane Operator Certification
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators: Tower Crane Operator Certification
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators: Overhead Crane Operator Certification
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators: Articulating Crane Operator