Crane, Hoist and Lift Operators

Crane, Hoist and Lift Operators operate stationary and mobile cranes, hoists, lifts and winches to lift, move and place materials, equipment and people in areas such as building sites, factories, mines, sawmills, wharves and shipyards.

What the job involves

  • Testing the operation of plant before use to ensure safety
  • Operating controls to rotate cranes, move cranes on fixed rails, raise and lower jibs and booms, and raise, lower and move hooks and objects
  • Working in conjunction with Construction Riggers and Crane Chasers to position hooks and raise, move and place loads
  • Controlling the movement of loads, and monitoring speed, acceleration and braking distances directly and by signalling to other operators
  • Monitoring plant operation, instruments and gauges to detect malfunctions and problems
  • Lubricating ropes and winches on cranes and replacing worn cables
  • May operate cranes fitted with attachments for purposes such as demolition and pile driving
  • May operate overhead cranes using hand controls suspended by cables from cranes

Key values of workers in Crane, Hoist and Lift Operators

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Relationships

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

Top skills required for workers in Crane, Hoist and Lift Operators

  • Operations Monitoring

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.