Crane Operator

We need Crane Operators to move materials and machinery into the precise locations needed for mining operations. Crane Operators need to be good with numbers, possess focus, coordination and confidence, and have respect for heavy equipment and machinery.

What is it Like to Work as a Crane Operator in Mining?

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

Crane Operators work inside a temperature-controlled equipment cab in hot and cold environments. Working alone in a cab for the majority of a shift, they communicate with colleagues mostly over two-way radios or by using hand signals. They may occasionally be required to lift up to 23 kg (50 lbs) (based on 2014 job research). For safety reasons, most crane work is done during daylight hours.

Why are People Attracted to this Career?

Crane Operators take pride in using their skills and training to provide a challenging and important service. They like to work on their own and also work well within a team to achieve common goals.

Job Description

  • Use cranes to lift, move, position or place equipment, machinery, materials and other large objects

  • Transport, set up and take down crane

  • Communicate with assigned crews to determine the best placement of the mobile crane for planned lifts

  • Operate the pedals and levers of cranes to rotate the crane, raise and lower its boom and one or more load lines in a safe and efficient manner to minimize risk of injury or damage

  • Apply and verify rigging, stay alert to identify and correct rigging hazards, lower loads to adjust rigging

  • Perform a walk-around inspection before, during, and after every shift, record results in log book and report issues to supervisor

  • Conduct test lifts, read, interpret and calculate crane capacities and weight (by reading load charts and load sensors) to prepare for rigging and hoisting

Staring Salary

$30.77/hour

Top Salary

$49.74/hour

Demand in Mining

1 2 3 4 5

Skill Transferability Among Other Industries

1 2 3 4 5

Success Profile

  • Follows verbal directions and hand signals

  • Stays focused

  • Is comfortable working at heights and has good vision, depth perception, hand-eye and eye-foot coordination

  • Has a deep level of respect for, and understanding of, safety procedures and regulations

  • Organized, alert and works well with minimal supervision and with others

  • Some understanding of mechanical systems

Job Entry Requirements

Note: The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

  • Completion of a three-to-four-year apprenticeship program or relevant work experience

  • One to three years of experience working under minimal supervision

  • Willingness to work in a diverse workplace

  • Must be able to pass a medical test

  • Must be able to pass a drug test

  • Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirement

  • Journeyperson Trade Certificate as Mobile Crane Operator (check the requirements for your province or territory)

Assets

  • Red Seal certification as Mobile Crane Operator

  • Willingness to relocate

  • Other languages