151 credential programs ladder toward this occupation. Median wage on completion: $58,710 · projected growth +3.6%. See full occupation profile →
Associate's Degree
A.A.S. in Apprenticeship Technology-Operating Engineer
Ivy Tech Community College
Certificate
Advanced Rigger
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Understand and follow safety procedures, including the proper use, inspection, and care of rigging hardware, slings, and hitchesContribute to and follow lift plans, including identifying hazards, selecting appropriate equipment, and ensuring safe sequencing of liftsUnderstand how weight distribution, swing, angle, and motion affect loads during lifting and movementUse hoisting, jacking, and special rigging tools (e.g., spreader bars, equalizer beams, cribbing) correctly and effectivelyUnderstand crane components, configurations, and setup procedures, including boom assembly and stability considerationsPerform inspections and ensure proper handling, configuration, and use of wire rope and terminations
Certification
Aerial Lift Inspector & Operator
Crane Institute of America
Identify aerial lift types including vehicle-mounted aerial lifts, boom support MEWPs, and scissor lift MEWPs using correct components and terminologyAnalyze causes and results of aerial lift accidents to understand the inspector's role in reducing accidents and liability exposureSelect the appropriate aerial lift for a given job based on rated capacity, site conditions, and application requirementsInterpret and apply rated capacity labels on vehicle-mounted aerial lifts to ensure safe operating limits are understood and observedApply pre-start frequent and annual inspection requirements in compliance with OSHA and ANSI/SAIA standards for aerial lift inspection programsApply the three levels of aerial lift inspection by understanding when and how each level is required and the criteria that differentiate each level
Short-Term Certificate
Apprenticeship Operating Engineer
Emily Griffith Technical College
Certificate
Articulating Boom Crane
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Demonstrate working knowledge of OSHA/ASME standards, employer responsibilities, and operator duties. Apply general safety principles to prevent hazards related to ground conditions, weather, power lines, and personnel exposureConduct pre-operational inspections, equipment setup, and assembly in accordance with manufacturer guidance and site conditions. Verify the function of operational aids, safety devices, and load chartsAccurately interpret and apply load chart data to determine safe rated capacities under varying configurations. Safely execute crane movements including travel, lifting, booming, and load positioning while accounting for net and gross capacitiesVerify load and rigging weights and rigging hardware to ensure compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC. Demonstrate clear communication using standardized hand and voice signals to coordinate with ground personnelUnderstand crane components, configurations, and setup procedures, including boom assembly and stability considerationsIdentify inspection intervals, testing requirements, and maintenance needs for ropes, hooks, and crane components. Respond effectively to equipment malfunctions, powerline contact, or site emergencies following OSHA/ASME protocols
Certification
Articulating Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Evaluate supporting‑surface conditions to identify subsurface and surface weaknesses that could affect crane stabilityUse blocking, cribbing, stabilizers, and wheel chocks to establish a secure and level foundation during crane setupIdentify site hazards to assess risks related to utilities, transportation clearances, personnel, and job‑site entry/exitReview lift requirements with site supervision to ensure alignment with operational needs and workplace responsibilitiesEstablish a safety zone to control site access and maintain safe working conditions during crane deploymentApply federal regulations and industry standards to ensure safe and compliant articulating‑boom crane operation
Certificate
Asphalt Roller Operator
Wallace State Community College
Asphalt Roller OperationEquipment InspectionPre-Operation Safety ChecksEquipment ControlsSafe Equipment OperationCompaction Techniques
Course
Asphalt Roller Operator
ACCS Innovation Center
AL
Adjust speed and direction to safely navigate the worksiteAdjust the vibration system based on material type and job site conditionsChoose the right roller with the right features for a jobCommunicate effectively with others on the job siteCompact material efficiently in varying site conditions using different techniquesConduct a pre-operation inspection using a checklist to examine steering, pedals, brakes, and exterior components
Certification
Assembly Disassembly (A/D) Director
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Verify compliance with safety regulations by applying OSHA 1926 Subpart CC, OSHA 1926.251, and ASME B30 standards during A/D activitiesObtain required A/D documentation by interpreting assembly instructions and identifying necessary personnel documentationIdentify PPE requirements by determining protective equipment needed for assembly/disassembly personnelEstablish restricted or controlled areas by applying powerline, excavation, pinch‑point, fall‑protection, and fall‑zone requirementsAssess site hazards by identifying environmental, positional, and equipment‑related risks prior to A/D workLocate applicable A/D procedures by referencing manufacturer manuals, employer procedures, and load charts
Certificate
Backhoe Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Certificate
Boom Truck Crane 2024
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Assemble and set up the boom truck crane including placement of matting lubrication of components and review of lift requirementsVerify gross capacity and calculate net crane capacity to determine safe lifting limitsOperate crane function controls to perform load unload and lift operationsApply operational aids including LMI OLP and stability systems to support safe crane operationsExecute emergency procedures to respond to unsafe conditions during crane operationsEnsure safety of the lifting area prior to and during crane operations
Certificate
Boom Truck Crane 2025
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Demonstrate working knowledge of OSHA/ASME standards, employer responsibilities, and operator duties. Apply general safety principles to prevent hazards related to ground conditions, weather, power lines, and personnel exposure.Conduct pre-operational inspections, equipment setup, and assembly in accordance with manufacturer guidance and site conditions. Verify the function of operational aids, safety devices, and load charts.Accurately interpret and apply load chart data to determine safe rated capacities under varying configurations. Safely execute crane movements including travel, lifting, booming, and load positioning while accounting for net and gross capacities.Verify load and rigging weights and rigging hardware to ensure compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC and ASME. Demonstrate clear communication using standardized hand and voice signals to coordinate with ground personnel.Understand crane components, configurations, and setup procedures, including boom assembly and stability considerations.Identify inspection intervals, testing requirements, and maintenance needs for ropes, hooks, and crane components. Respond effectively to equipment malfunctions, powerline contact, or site emergencies following OSHA/ASME protocols.
Certificate
Bulldozer Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Certificate
Bulldozer Operator
Wallace State Community College
Bulldozer OperationEquipment InspectionPre-Operation Safety ChecksMachine ControlsSite PreparationEarthmoving Techniques
Course
Bulldozer Operator
ACCS Innovation Center
AL
Describe how to drive a bulldozer safely, including starting, stopping, turning, and reversingDescribe limitations, such as restricted maneuverability, inability to work on steep slopes, and challenges in tight spacesDescribe the functions of bulldozer tracks, such as providing traction, stability, and weight distributionDescribe the use of PPE, such as helmets, gloves, and safety boots, when operating a bulldozerDiscuss safety precautions related to common job site hazards (e.g., uneven terrain, obstacles, other equipment)Explain how to operate the bulldozer blade for tasks like pushing soil, leveling, and shaping terrain
Apprenticeship
Carpenters 46 Northern CA Counties: Pile Driver
Carpenters 46 Northern CA Counties
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Apprenticeship
Carpenters Local 1281: Pile Driver
Carpenters Local 1281
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Certificate
Certificate in Civil Construction and Heavy Highway Equipment
Ivy Tech Community College
Certification
Certified Rigger and Signaler
United Brotherhood of Carpenters
Inspects hardware, slings, and rigging equipment before each use and understands the criteria for their removalSelects the proper hardware and equipment for various hoisting operations while compensating for different crane, environmental, and job site conditionsProperly accounts for the effects and limitations of hitch configurations and calculates sling stress on symmetrical loads using the appropriate formulasKnowledgeable about and performs proper hardware installation and attachment techniquesCommunicates movements to crane operator using the appropriate voice or hand signalsTakes into account the effect of voice or hand signals on the load and the crane
Apprenticeship
Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters: Pile Driver
Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Certificate
Compact Equipment Operator
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
Certification
Concrete Pump Operator
American Concrete Pumping Association
Conduct pre-operation inspections of the concrete pump and truck including engine oil, hydraulic oil, radiator, outriggers, safety covers, gauges, and placing line components before leaving the yardSelect and use required PPE including hard hat, safety glasses, work gloves, rubber boots, and breathing protection appropriate for concrete pump operationsSet up the concrete pump on the job site by positioning the unit, deploying outriggers, and verifying stability before commencing pumping operationsIdentify and maintain safe distances from energized power lines using dedicated spotters and applying ACPA minimum clearance requirements during boom operationsCommunicate placement directions using the 14 standardized ACPA safety hand signals and establishing a single designated signal person for boom movementPrime the placing line with appropriate slurry or lubricating mix prior to pumping to prevent plugging and ensure proper lubrication of the system
Certificate
Construction Equipment Operation
North Arkansas College
Certification
Crane Inspector
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Interpret crane‑inspection standards by applying ASME B30 requirements to pre‑inspection planningInterpret regulatory requirements by applying OSHA rules relevant to crane inspection activitiesDemonstrate crane terminology and definitions to ensure accurate communication during inspection processesCommunicate inspection needs to site supervisors by identifying required information, access, and conditionsApply knowledge of standards and regulations to determine the scope and requirements of the crane inspectionVerify documentation accuracy by confirming application, maintenance, and engineering records meet required criteria
Certification
Dedicated Pile Driver Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Identify surface and subsurface hazards to assess risks such as voids, tanks, loose fill, retaining walls, and excavations before equipment arrivalUse appropriate supporting materials to stabilize the equipment with natural or manufactured cribbing as site conditions requireDetermine safe clearances to energized power lines to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain required approach distancesVerify machine travel limitations to ensure safe movement and positioning during arrival and site entrySet up pile‑driving equipment to establish proper machine placement, secure attachments, and stage piles safelyPerform required inspections to evaluate structural, mechanical, and safety‑device conditions and document findings according to procedures
Certification
Digger Derrick Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Evaluate supporting‑surface conditions to identify subsurface and surface weaknesses that could compromise crane stabilityIdentify site hazards to assess risks involving utilities, transportation clearances, traffic control, and job‑site accessApply power‑line safety practices to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain safe working distances during site setupReview lift requirements with site supervision to confirm alignment between lift plans, travel clearances, and ground‑support needsEnforce personnel restrictions to ensure that only qualified workers access the lift area and unauthorized individuals remain excludedInspect crane systems and equipment to evaluate controls, safety devices, warning systems, rigging, load lines, and structural components before operation
Certification
Dynamic Positioning Operator
Nautical Institute
Apply dynamic positioning principles to support safe and effective dynamic positioning system operationsConfigure and set up dynamic positioning systems including power supply, manoeuvring systems, and position reference systemsOperate dynamic positioning-associated equipment and interpret alarm, warning, and information messages during vessel operationsRelate dynamic positioning installation requirements to ship systems including power supply, manoeuvring capability, and available position reference systemsAssess environmental conditions including wind, sea state, current, tidal stream, and vessel movement in relation to dynamic positioning operations
Certification
EETC Principles of Small Engine Technology Certification
Equipment & Engine Training Council - EETC
Explain four-stroke engine operation and define normal combustion in small enginesIdentify and explain the purpose of four-stroke engine components including cooling systems, lubrication systems, and oilAnalyze fuel systems including carburetors, fuel delivery methods, and engine management in four-stroke enginesApply emission standards and explain engine servicing and warranty requirements related to emissions in small enginesIdentify and analyze electrical ignition systems, spark plugs, and engine charging and starting systems in four-stroke enginesExplain mechanical and electronic governor function in four-stroke engines
Short-Term Certificate
EPIC-Heavy Equipment Operations Level I
Trinidad State College
Certificate
Earthmoving Equipment Operator
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump
$2,347 cost
Certificate
Energy Production & Industrial Construction-HEQ
Trinidad State College
Associate's Degree
Energy Production & Industrial Construction-HEQ
Trinidad State College
Certification
Evaluator of Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Ensure evaluation impartiality by identifying conflicts of interest and recusing oneself when bias is real or perceivedReview applicable standards and regulations by referencing OSHA, ASME, and local requirements along with manufacturer informationGather contractor and site information by determining what data must be collected prior to conducting the evaluationConfirm crane configuration and hoisting tasks by interviewing employers or authorized personnel about crane type and job requirementsVerify completion of required inspections by identifying which manufacturer and contractor inspections are needed before evaluationDetermine evaluation topics by reviewing site conditions, tasks performed, and crane configurations to establish test scope
Course
Excavator Operator
ACCS Innovation Center
AL
Adapt operations to different conditions, including slopes and surface typesConduct pre-operation checks on buttons, knobs, and lightsConduct track inspections, checking for wear and damageExecute full 360-degree rotational movements efficientlyFollow post-operation procedures, securing equipment and exiting safelyIdentify and mitigate hazards, including buried utilities and traffic risks
Certificate
Front-End Loader Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Certificate
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATIONS
New River Community and Technical College
Associate's Degree
HEAVY EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY-EPIC
Trinidad State College
Certificate
HEAVY EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY-EPIC
Trinidad State College
Apprenticeship
Hawaii Carpenters Union: Pile Driver
Hawaii Carpenters Union
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Certificate
Heavy Equipment Logging Operations and Maintenance
Shasta College
Certificate
Heavy Equipment Operation
Coalinga College
Certificate
Heavy Equipment Operations
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
Certificate
Heavy Equipment Operator
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Elizabethton
$2,974 cost
Long Certificate
Heavy Equipment Operator Technician
Butte College
Certification
Highway Construction Inspection Level I
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies
Apply standard construction terminology and project document conventions to locate and interpret information on plans, drawings, and specifications for highway construction inspectionPerform measurements and calculations including unit conversions, area and volume computations, and dimension verification against plans and specifications using U.S. Customary and Metric unitsIdentify and distinguish tools and equipment used by inspectors, surveyors, and construction crews for inspections, testing, reporting, and field operationsApply personal protective equipment and identify safety hazards, reporting requirements, and safety information sources on highway construction job sitesIdentify and verify site operation components including work zone traffic control, construction activities, erosion and sediment controls, and utility markings on highway construction projects
Certificate
Hydraulic Excavator Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Certificate
Hydraulic Excavator Operator
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Certification
ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist
International Society of Arboriculture
Apply safety standards, PPE requirements, and industry regulations to protect the aerial lift operator, ground workers, and persons near the work zoneConduct pre-operation inspections of the aerial lift device including mechanical systems, controls, and safety equipment before commencing tree workPosition and operate the aerial lift device to safely access tree work locations while maintaining stability and compliance with manufacturer specificationsIdentify and mitigate electrical hazards by applying electrical hazard awareness principles and maintaining safe approach distances from energized linesPerform aerial rescue procedures and provide emergency response for lift-related incidents involving the operator or other workers at the work siteExecute tree removal operations from an aerial lift using appropriate techniques to ensure accuracy, safety, and controlled processing of tree parts
Certificate
Industrial /All Purpose Crane 2024
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Assemble and set up the industrial crane including placement of matting lubrication of components and review of lift requirementsVerify gross capacity and calculate net crane capacity to determine safe lifting limitsOperate crane function controls to perform load unload and lift operationsApply operational aids including LMI OLP and stability systems to support safe crane operationsExecute emergency procedures to respond to unsafe conditions during crane operationsEnsure safety of the lifting area prior to and during crane operations
Certificate
Industrial Carry Deck Crane 2025
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Apply general crane safety practices and regulatory standards governing industrial and carry deck crane operationsAssemble and set up the carry deck crane including site preparation operational components control systems and safety devicesPerform crane inspections testing and maintenance including rope inspection and routine crane maintenanceOperate crane function controls to perform load handling and travel proceduresApply load charts to verify gross and net crane capacity for planned liftsExecute emergency response procedures to manage unsafe conditions during crane operations
Certificate
Lattice Boom Crane 2024
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Assemble and set up the lattice boom crane including placement of matting lubrication of components and review of lift requirementsVerify gross capacity and calculate net crane capacity to determine safe lifting limitsOperate crane function controls to perform load unload and lift operationsApply operational aids including LMI OLP and stability systems to support safe crane operationsExecute emergency procedures to respond to unsafe conditions during crane operationsEnsure safety of the lifting area prior to and during crane operations
Certificate
Lattice Boom Crane 2025
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Apply general crane safety practices and regulatory standards governing lattice boom crane operationsAssemble and set up the lattice boom crane including site preparation operational components control systems and safety devicesPerform crane inspections testing and maintenance including rope inspection and routine crane maintenanceOperate crane function controls to perform load handling and travel proceduresApply load charts to verify gross and net crane capacity for planned liftsExecute emergency response procedures to manage unsafe conditions during crane operations
Certification
Lift Director
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Identify personnel roles by distinguishing the responsibilities and qualifications of lift directors, supervisors, riggers, signalpersons, and other lifting‑operation stakeholdersDescribe pre‑lift procedures by outlining how lift directors conduct meetings, perform basic planning, and assign tag‑line dutiesDifferentiate organizational responsibilities by recognizing the functions of crane owners, crane users, controlling entities, and site supervisors during lifting operationsDefine spotter responsibilities by identifying when a dedicated spotter is required and how they support safe load movementIdentify applicable rigging inspection standards by distinguishing between periodic/annual requirements and frequent/shift requirementsRecognize non‑inspection rigging standards by understanding how regulations apply to safe versus unsafe rigging practices
Certification
Manager of Landfill Operations (MOLO)
Solid Waste Association of North America
$250 cost
Manage daily landfill operations including waste placement, equipment use, and site safety to maintain efficient and compliant facilitiesApply regulatory and permitting requirements to ensure landfill design, operations, monitoring, and closure meet environmental standardsImplement landfill monitoring and environmental control systems including leachate, landfill gas, and groundwater managementPlan and oversee landfill construction, surveying, and closure activities using accepted engineering and operational practicesApply financial, administrative, and risk management principles to control costs, manage staff, and support long‑term landfill sustainability
Course
Managing Collection Systems
Solid Waste Association of North America
$250 cost
Plan and manage residential solid waste and recyclables collection systems in municipal environmentsDesign and operate municipal solid waste collection systems to support efficient service deliveryEvaluate collection service methods, types, and service levels to optimize waste collection operationsSelect and maintain collection equipment based on design specifications and operational needsApply proven collection methods to improve efficiency in residential waste collection systemsDevelop and implement collection vehicle routing strategies to optimize operational performance
Course
Managing Integrated Solid Waste Management Systems
Solid Waste Association of North America
$250 cost
Plan and manage integrated municipal solid waste systems to support effective operationsApply regulatory considerations and public education strategies in solid waste management contextsUnderstand and manage facility operations including landfills, transfer stations, and waste-to-energy facilitiesDesign and manage collection systems for municipal solid waste operationsDevelop and manage recycling and reuse programs to support sustainability goalsManage hard-to-handle wastes using appropriate handling and disposal strategies
Certificate
Math for Crane Operators
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Calculate crane boom configuration parameters to support lift planning and capacity determinationPerform load calculations to determine load weight center of gravity and rigging requirementsApply rope reeving and sling calculations to support safe rigging and load handling operations
Apprenticeship
Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters: Pile Driver
Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Apprenticeship
Mid-Atlantic Carpenters Training Center: Pile Driver
Mid-Atlantic Carpenters Training Center
Active ListeningBuilding & ConstructionConstruction Equipment OperationCoordinationManual DexterityMathematics
Certification
Mobile Crane Inspector & Certification
Crane Institute of America
Identify mobile crane types including telescoping boom, lattice boom, boom truck, articulating boom, and industrial carry deck cranes using correct components and terminologyEstablish a mobile crane inspection program incorporating OSHA and ASME inspection requirements, inspector roles, and liability exposure reduction strategiesApply the three levels of crane inspection by understanding when and how each level is required and what criteria differentiate routine from detailed inspectionInspect structural components of mobile cranes including booms, frames, and welds to identify deficiencies and safety hazards in compliance with applicable standardsInspect mechanical and operational systems including sheaves, blocks, hooks, and operating mechanisms to assess condition and identify defects requiring corrective actionInspect hydraulic and pneumatic systems including cylinders, lines, and fittings to detect leaks, wear, and pressure-related deficiencies