Job Description and Requirements for a Bridge Crane Operator
Job Descriptions September 3, 2015Do You Have What it takes to be a Bridge Crane Operator?
Construction and heavy equipment positions are some of the highest in demand to fill these days. People need laborers, and they need skilled ones at that, in order to get new buildings completed, roads repaired, and other daily tasks that are essential to the smooth running of the modern world. There are a lot of demanding positions out there that need to be filled, and one of the best is a bridge crane operator. This is a great opportunity for people who prefer to work with their hands and enjoy a fast-paced, industrial environment. It pays well and there are always openings in this field, giving you lots of options, regardless of where you are located.
Responsibilities of a Bridge Crane Operator
The objective of this job is to move heavy equipment, construction supplies, and other construction workers in order to help move production and construction along in the easiest and most efficient manner. You will need to be able to communicate with radios and hand motions in order to safely move these things from one place to the next, so these skills are crucial. There are a wide span of environments that you may be expected to work in; all of them will be industrial, such as in freight warehouses, on construction sites, roadsides for construction work, and loading docks with various companies.
Education Requirements
One of the great things about this position is that it does not require much formal education. You will be required to have your high school diploma or a GED, but there is not any other requirement. Once you have met these requirements, there are other processes that must be completed, but this will be done with whatever company hires you for the position.
Training and Certifications
Most companies will put you through a training process that takes approximately three to four years to complete. All of this will be paid and completed on the job. This is a great way to start out. By the time you have finished this, you will have completed an apprenticeship. Once you have done this, almost all companies that you will work with will then promote you to a higher position and pay grade. Although it takes some time to reach this point, it pays off quickly, and will boost your salary a great deal.
Additionally, some employers ask their bridge crane operators to complete additional training and receive certification. More often than not, this will depend on the local government in the area where you will be living or working. Not all states and counties require this, but some will and there are also specific companies that require it without it being considered necessary by the state. Many employers will pay for you to complete this certification, and it can also be transferred to other careers once you have obtained it, leaving the door open for further possibilities and opportunities, depending on the choices you make down the road.
Salary Expectations and Job Growth Projections
The heavy equipment operation position is expected to see a good deal of growth. You can expect to see up to 17% more jobs in coming years, as well as increased pay over time. This is for entry-level positions like the bridge crane operator. On average, most workers can expect to make an average salary of $48,000 annually. This is the starting wage, however, and higher positions with more responsibilities can pay much more. Most employers will also pay better if you have certifications, more years of experience, or if you can prove that you have the skills that they are looking for in their employees.
