Crane operator, Kaiwhakamahi wakahiki
Also known as
- Container crane operator, mobile crane operator, tower crane operator, craneman
Crane operators use mechanical cranes and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines or products on construction sites and wharves or in factories.

Duration
2:12 mins
Your pay could be
$26
Lower
$35 to $58
Most common
$74
Upper
How does this pay compare?
Pay is before tax
Your training could be
0-2 years

Crane operators
- usually work irregular hours, including nights and weekends
- usually work in various locations, including construction sites, warehouses, wharves, film sets and agriculture
- may work outdoors in all weather conditions
- need to be safety conscious, practical and reliable
Tasks
- operate and drive cranes
- set up and secure cranes
- do regular crane maintenance checks
- make sure loads are safe
- look for and deal with hazards
- follow ground crew instructions
- check crane tires, water, oil and fuel
- create plans to lift different load types
- drive mobile cranes to worksites
- follow health and safety rules
Practical
Organised
Investigative
Interests that fit this job
Interest quiz,
Kairoro Kaingākau
Do the Interest quiz to find out how well your interests fit with this job.
Do the quizYou need to train on the job to become a crane operator.
You need
- a Class 4 driver licence
You may need
- a New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 3)
- a New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 4 or 5)
- a driver licence with a special-type vehicle endorsement
If you’re in school
You usually don’t need specific NCEA levels for this job.
Path FinderTiro Whetū,
Discover the steps to this career idea.
Loading job ads
Path FinderTiro Whetū,
Discover the steps to this career idea.
Other career ideas in Heavy machineryĒtahi atu huatau aramahi i Ngā mīhini taumaha,
Showing career ideas 1-6 of 9