Occupation AtlasCrane and Tower Operators
O*NET · 53-7021.00
Crane and Tower Operators
Operate mechanical boom and cable or tower and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines, or products in many directions.
56 more
Cantilever Crane Operator · Cathead Operator · Cell Tower Tech · Cell Tower Technician (Cell Tower Tech) · Certified Crane Operator · Charging Crane Operator · Cherry Picker Operator · Cinder Dump Crane Operator · Cinder Pit Crane Operator · Clamshell Operator · Coal Tower Operator · Coke Crane Operator · Crane Driver · Crane Ladle Person · Crane Operator · Demolition Crane Operator · Derrick Boat Lever Operator · Derrick Boat Leverman · Diesel Crane Operator · Electric Crane Operator · Equipment Operator · Erecting Crane Operator · Gantry Crane Operator · Heavy Equipment Operator · Hydrocrane Operator · Ladle Crane Operator · Locomotive Crane Operator · Machine Operator · Mill Crane Operator · Mixer Crane Operator · Mobile Crane Operator · Mold Yard Crane Operator · Monorail Crane Operator · Ore Bridge Operator · Overhead Crane Operator · Overhead Crane Truck Loader · Pig Machine Crane Operator · Pit Crane Operator · Port Crane Operator · Pouring Crane Operator · Power Crane Operator · Radio Control Crane Operator · Scrap Crane Operator · Scrap Drop Crane Operator · Scrap Drop Operator · Sorting Grapple Operator · Steam Crane Operator · Steel Crane Operator · Tower Crane Operator · Tower Loader Operator · Tractor Crane Operator · Truck Crane Operator · Whirley Operator · Woodyard Crane Operator · Wrecking Crane Engine Operator · Yard Crane Operator
Compare with another occupationCompare with Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Job Zone
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed
Medium preparation. Vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree, with one to two years of training that combines experience and informal instruction.
Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.
Occupational interest profile
RCIRealistic · Conventional · Investigative — the three strongest interests, in order
- R Realistic7.00
- C Conventional3.94
- I Investigative2.22
- E Enterprising1.30
- S Social1.19
- A Artistic1.00
RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.
Education and experience
The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.
- Related work experience
- Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years (21%)
- On-site or in-plant training
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months (27%)
- On-the-job training
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months (27%)
Typically associated skills
All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.
- Operation and ControlImportance 3.9Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Adjust the speed of assembly line equipment based on the product being assembled
- Operations MonitoringImportance 3.8Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Monitor machine functions on an automated production line
- Critical ThinkingbasicImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Determine whether a subordinate has a good excuse for being late
- Active ListeningbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Take a customer's order
- MonitoringbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Proofread and correct a letter
- Reading ComprehensionbasicImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Read step-by-step instructions for completing a form
- SpeakingbasicImportance 3.0Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Greet tourists and explain tourist attractions
- Time ManagementImportance 3.0Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
- Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 3.0Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
- TroubleshootingImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
- Equipment MaintenanceImportance 2.9Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
- RepairingImportance 2.9Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
Show the other 23
- Active LearningbasicImportance 2.9Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Think about the implications of a news article for job opportunities
- Complex Problem SolvingImportance 2.9Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
- CoordinationImportance 2.8Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
- Quality Control AnalysisImportance 2.6Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Inspect a draft email for errors (e.g., grammar, punctuation)
- WritingbasicImportance 2.6Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
- MathematicsbasicImportance 2.6Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
- Social PerceptivenessImportance 2.5Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
- Management of Personnel ResourcesImportance 2.4Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
- InstructingImportance 2.3Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
- Learning StrategiesbasicImportance 2.3Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
- PersuasionImportance 2.3Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
- NegotiationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
- Service OrientationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
- Systems EvaluationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Determine why estimates for the time to complete a task are overly optimistic
- Equipment SelectionImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
- Operations AnalysisImportance 1.9Level 1.1Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
- Systems AnalysisImportance 1.6Level 1.1Level 2 looks like: Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a job
- InstallationImportance 1.6Level 0.9
- Management of Material ResourcesImportance 1.6Level 0.6
- Management of Financial ResourcesImportance 1.5Level 0.6
- Technology DesignImportance 1.4Level 0.4
- SciencebasicImportance 1.1Level —
- ProgrammingImportance 1.0Level —
Tasks
8 core · 3 supplementalWhat people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).
- Move levers, depress foot pedals, or turn dials to operate cranes, cherry pickers, electromagnets, or other moving equipment for lifting, moving, or placing loads.Importance 4.8
- Inspect crane site conditions to determine ground stability.Importance 4.8
- Inspect and adjust crane mechanisms or lifting accessories to prevent malfunctions or damage.Importance 4.6
- Direct helpers engaged in placing blocking or outrigging under cranes.Importance 4.6
- Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload.Importance 4.5
- Clean, lubricate, and maintain mechanisms such as cables, pulleys, or grappling devices, making repairs, as necessary.Importance 4.5
- Inspect cables or grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables, as needed.Importance 4.4
- Load or unload bundles from trucks, or move containers to storage bins, using moving equipment.Importance 3.9
Show the other 3
- Direct truck drivers backing vehicles into loading bays and cover, uncover, or secure loads for delivery.Importance 4.3
- Review daily work or delivery schedules to determine orders, sequences of deliveries, or special loading instructions.Importance 3.8
- Inspect bundle packaging for conformance to regulations or customer requirements, and remove and batch packaging tickets.Importance 3.7
Knowledge
Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.
- MechanicalImportance 3.6Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Replace a valve on a steam pipe
- MathematicsImportance 3.0Level 2.9
- English LanguageImportance 2.9Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Write a thank you note
- TransportationImportance 2.9Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Drive a semi-truck through a busy city
- Public Safety and SecurityImportance 2.8Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Inspect a building site for safety violations
- Building and ConstructionImportance 2.7Level 2.9
- Education and TrainingImportance 2.6Level 2.9
- Production and ProcessingImportance 2.6Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Put a computer back into its packing materials
Show all 33
- Administration and ManagementImportance 2.5Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Approve a reimbursement request
- Computers and ElectronicsImportance 2.4Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Operate a media player to watch a training video
- Engineering and TechnologyImportance 2.4Level 2.9
- DesignImportance 2.3Level 2.8
- PhysicsImportance 2.3Level 2.8
- Customer and Personal ServiceImportance 2.2Level 2.6
- TelecommunicationsImportance 2.2Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Send an email
- Personnel and Human ResourcesImportance 2.1Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
- AdministrativeImportance 1.9Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Direct phone calls to the appropriate staff member
- Communications and MediaImportance 1.9Level 1.6Level 1 looks like: Write a thank you note
- Law and GovernmentImportance 1.7Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Describe the length of a U.S. presidential term
- PsychologyImportance 1.7Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Monitor several children on a playground
- Therapy and CounselingImportance 1.6Level 1.0Level 1 looks like: Put ice on a sprained ankle
- ChemistryImportance 1.5Level 1.0Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
- Economics and AccountingImportance 1.5Level 0.9Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
- GeographyImportance 1.5Level 1.1Level 1 looks like: Know the capital of the United States
- Sales and MarketingImportance 1.5Level —
- Medicine and DentistryImportance 1.4Level 0.8Level 1 looks like: Use a band-aid
- Foreign LanguageImportance 1.3Level 0.7Level 1 looks like: Say "please" and "thank you" in a foreign language
- Philosophy and TheologyImportance 1.3Level —
- Sociology and AnthropologyImportance 1.3Level —
- BiologyImportance 1.2Level —
- History and ArcheologyImportance 1.2Level —
- Fine ArtsImportance 1.1Level —
- Food ProductionImportance 1.1Level —
Abilities
Enduring capacities the work calls for.
- Control PrecisionImportance 4.1Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Adjust farm tractor controls
- Multilimb CoordinationImportance 4.0Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Operate a forklift truck in a warehouse
- Depth PerceptionImportance 3.9Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Operate a crane to move materials from a truck bed to the ground
- Far VisionImportance 3.9Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Read the slides on a presentation from across a room
- Rate ControlImportance 3.8Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Keep up with a car that changes speed
- Reaction TimeImportance 3.8Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Press a button to stop operation when a warning light goes off
- Arm-Hand SteadinessImportance 3.6Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Thread a needle
- Problem SensitivityImportance 3.6Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Recognize that an unplugged lamp won't work
Show all 52
- Manual DexterityImportance 3.5Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Pack oranges in crates as quickly as possible
- Response OrientationImportance 3.5Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Use either the brake or gas pedal when your vehicle is skidding
- Selective AttentionImportance 3.5Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Watch security monitors for intruders throughout the night shift
- Near VisionImportance 3.4Level 3.6
- Oral ExpressionImportance 3.3Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
- Oral ComprehensionImportance 3.1Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
- Perceptual SpeedImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Read five pressure indicators in 10 seconds to make sure each is within safe limits
- Speech ClarityImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Make stadium-wide announcements during a sporting event
- Speech RecognitionImportance 3.1Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
- Visual Color DiscriminationImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Trace electrical circuits marked by various colored wires
- VisualizationImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Follow a diagram to assemble a metal storage cabinet
- Deductive ReasoningImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
- Finger DexterityImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Put coins in a parking meter
- Glare SensitivityImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Drive on a familiar road on a cloudy day
- Information OrderingImportance 3.0Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
- Spatial OrientationImportance 3.0Level 2.8Level 3 looks like: Find your way through a dark room without hitting anything
- Time SharingImportance 3.0Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Listen to music while entering numbers into a spreadsheet
- Auditory AttentionImportance 2.9Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
- Extent FlexibilityImportance 2.9Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Reach to adjust the radio in a car
- Flexibility of ClosureImportance 2.9Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
- Hearing SensitivityImportance 2.9Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
- Inductive ReasoningImportance 2.9Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
- Trunk StrengthImportance 2.9Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
- Written ComprehensionImportance 2.9Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Understand signs on the highway
- Written ExpressionImportance 2.9Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Write a note to remind someone to take food out of the freezer
- Category FlexibilityImportance 2.8Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Sort paintbrushes based on length
- Peripheral VisionImportance 2.8Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Keep in step while marching in a band
- Static StrengthImportance 2.8Level 2.9
- Gross Body EquilibriumImportance 2.5Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Stand on a ladder
- Sound LocalizationImportance 2.5Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Listen to a sound system to determine which speaker is working
- Wrist-Finger SpeedImportance 2.5Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
- Fluency of IdeasImportance 2.4Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
- Mathematical ReasoningImportance 2.4Level 2.1Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
- OriginalityImportance 2.4Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
- Dynamic StrengthImportance 2.3Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Use pruning shears to trim a bush
- Number FacilityImportance 2.3Level 2.1Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
- Speed of Limb MovementImportance 2.3Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Saw through a thin piece of wood
- Gross Body CoordinationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Get in and out of a truck
- MemorizationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
- Speed of ClosureImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
- StaminaImportance 2.1Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Walk 1/4 mile
- Night VisionImportance 2.0Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Read street signs at dusk (just after sunset)
- Explosive StrengthImportance 1.3Level —
- Dynamic FlexibilityImportance 1.0Level —
Work activities
Kinds of activity the work is made of.
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentImportance 5.0Level 6.1Level 7 looks like: Hover a helicopter in strong wind
- Controlling Machines and ProcessesImportance 4.9Level 6.8Level 7 looks like: Operate a precision milling machine
- Handling and Moving ObjectsImportance 4.9Level 6.9Level 7 looks like: Load boxes on an assembly line
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsImportance 4.8Level 5.3Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsImportance 4.5Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
- Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsImportance 4.3Level 5.1Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
- Repairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentImportance 4.3Level 5.8
- Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentImportance 4.2Level 6.1Level 7 looks like: Overhaul a power plant turbine
Show all 41
- Getting InformationImportance 4.1Level 4.7Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
- Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsImportance 4.0Level 5.4Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
- Training and Teaching OthersImportance 3.9Level 5.3Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesImportance 3.8Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
- Developing Objectives and StrategiesImportance 3.8Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Develop the plan to complete the merger of two organizations over a 3-year period
- Performing for or Working Directly with the PublicImportance 3.8Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Sell shoes in a crowded shoe store
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersImportance 3.7Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Interpret how foreign tax laws apply to U.S. exports
- Performing General Physical ActivitiesImportance 3.7Level 5.3Level 4 looks like: Paint the outside of a house
- Coordinating the Work and Activities of OthersImportance 3.6Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Organize the cleanup crew after a major sporting event
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsImportance 3.6Level 4.7Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsImportance 3.6Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a complicated insurance claim for compliance with policy terms
- Guiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesImportance 3.6Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Manage a small team of employees in a dynamic workplace
- Processing InformationImportance 3.6Level 4.8Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
- Scheduling Work and ActivitiesImportance 3.6Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
- Assisting and Caring for OthersImportance 3.5Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Help a medical patient find in-home assistance or healthcare
- Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleImportance 3.5Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
- Providing Consultation and Advice to OthersImportance 3.5Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Recommend a new software package to increase operational efficiency
- Working with ComputersImportance 3.5Level 3.7Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
- Coaching and Developing OthersImportance 3.3Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Provide on-the-job training for administrative workers
- Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersImportance 3.3Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Get two subordinates to agree about vacation schedules
- Thinking CreativelyImportance 3.3Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
- Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeImportance 3.3Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
- Analyzing Data or InformationImportance 3.2Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
- Communicating with People Outside the OrganizationImportance 3.2Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
- Monitoring and Controlling ResourcesImportance 3.1Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Work as a chef responsible for ordering food for the menu
- Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkImportance 3.1Level 3.7Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
- Documenting/Recording InformationImportance 3.0Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
- Selling or Influencing OthersImportance 3.0Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Make a sales pitch to convince others to buy a product
- Developing and Building TeamsImportance 2.7Level 2.9
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationImportance 2.4Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Estimate the size of household furniture to be shipped
- Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentImportance 2.3Level 2.7
- Performing Administrative ActivitiesImportance 2.0Level 1.7Level 1 looks like: Complete routine paperwork
- Staffing Organizational UnitsImportance 1.7Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements
Work context
The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.
Technology
6 toolsSoftware used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.
Hot (4)
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
Other tools (2)
- Crane operation control software
- Inventory tracking software
Related occupations
O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.
ESCO equivalents
From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.
Closest occupations
Compare any occupation →Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Average difference 0.1 points · Operation and Control −0.8, Coordination −0.4
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Average difference 0.2 points · Mathematics −0.6, Management of Personnel Resources −0.5
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
Average difference 0.2 points · Equipment Selection +0.6, Installation −0.6
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Continuous Mining Machine Operators
Average difference 0.2 points · Mathematics −0.6, Equipment Maintenance +0.5
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Wellhead Pumpers
Average difference 0.2 points · Active Learning −0.5, Coordination −0.5
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Sailors and Marine Oilers
Average difference 0.2 points · Equipment Selection +0.9, Installation −0.6
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Average difference 0.2 points · Equipment Maintenance −0.5, Operation and Control −0.5
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas
Average difference 0.2 points · Equipment Selection +1.0, Systems Analysis +0.7
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.