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Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator - Tower Crane

Photo/Video Credit alis.alberta.ca

Crane and hoisting equipment operators service and operate the hoist and swing equipment used to move machinery, materials and other large objects.  Tower crane operators service and operate traveling, fixed, climbing or self-erecting type hoisting equipment with a vertical mast or tower and a jib.

Tower crane operators manipulate a number of pedals and levers to rotate the crane, and raise and lower its boom and one or more loadlines. Some or all of these operations may be performed simultaneously.  Tower crane operators are often involved in assembling the crane onsite.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

  • Sponsored Apprentices, and
  • Certified Journeypersons.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.

Trade Updates

An overview of the recent changes to the crane and hoisting equipment operator apprenticeship training programs are available here.

Program Information

Program Information & Requirements
Apprenticeship
  • The term of apprenticeship for a tower crane operator is 2 years (two 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1320 hours of on-the-job training and 6 weeks of classroom instruction in the first year, and minimum of 1500 hours of on-the-job training in the second year.
  • Classroom instruction for this apprenticeship program is currently suspended. Information about this suspension and how you can continue to progress in your apprenticeship is available here.
  • Apprentices are expected to demonstrate progress in their apprenticeship program within 18 months by engaging in an activity that will lead to the completion of a period of the program.
  • Apprentices may attempt the Interprovincial Exam in the final period of their apprenticeship training and, if successful, be granted a Red Seal.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, the apprentice will receive a journeyperson certificate and an educational credential (Certificate of Achievement).
Trades Qualifier

You can earn a Journeyperson Certificate based on:

Work Experience

The requirements for a Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator - Tower Crane are:

  • A minimum of 36 months AND 4,230 hours of work experience. 
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($310.00).
    • Candidates must provide their own certified crane for the assessment.  Assessors will travel to the Alberta site indicated by the client.

Recognized Credentials

The requirements for a Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator – Tower Crane are:

  • A valid recognized credential from another jurisdiction.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($310.00).
    • Candidates must provide their own certified crane for the assessment.  Assessors will travel to the Alberta site indicated by the client.

Program Credit

Category Information
High School Credit
Related Trades

Applicants with an Alberta or recognized trade certificate in one of the following trades may be eligible for credit towards their apprenticeship or Trades Qualifier program requirements.

  • Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator - Boom Truck Operator
  • Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator - Mobile Crane Operator

Supporting Resources

 
Description
Description / Resources
Resources
Trade Information Get important information about the duties, working conditions, and skills and abilities needed to work in this trade. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Job Information View job postings in this trade, and learn about the current job market, average wage and resources for finding a job. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Entrance Requirement You must satisfy the educational requirements or pass the entrance exam to start an apprenticeship program. If you are writing the entrance exam, there are entrance-level competencies to help you prepare, as well as an exam counselling sheet and study guide.
Curriculum Guide Get information on all of the program requirements and what you will learn.
Classroom Instruction View a list of currently scheduled classes.
Financial Assistance Student loans, grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information visit our Financial Assistance section, visit an Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or call toll-free to 1-800-248-4823.
Examinations Get exam counselling sheets for your upcoming apprenticeship, interprovincial or qualification exam.
Legislation For more information regarding undertakings, activities, and certification requirements, please review the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation and the Designated Trades’ Activities and Certification Requirements Order.

 

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