Crane Operator Duties & Responsibilities

The role and function of a Crane Operator includes the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Drive trucks to worksites and unload trucks.
  • Place blocks and outriggers to prevent capsizing when lifting heavy loads.
  • Operate crane under general supervision.
  • Manipulate or depress cane controls to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions.
  • Bolt boom sections together to extend or modify boom for pile driving or high lifting.
  • Work with in precise limits and standards of accuracy.
  • Operate crane according to signals from helper.
  • Complete job tickets, service quality summaries, and all other necessary paperwork.
  • Start and stop crane engine.
  • Follow directions carefully.
  • Determine if any parts are malfunctioning.
  • Lift, position and place machinery, equipment or other large objects at construction sites and industrial facilities.
  • Move levers and pedals to rotate crane on chassis to raise and lower crane boom and to raise and lower load-line.
  • Repair crane as needed.
  • Inspect crane for safety issues on a daily basis

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Crane Operator duties and responsibilities. Job functions for specific Crane Operator roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.