65 credential programs ladder toward this occupation. Median wage on completion: $66,370 · projected growth +2.8%. 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
Course
Aerial Lift Operator
Alabama Training Network
AL
Operate Aerial Lifts SafelyUse Fall Protection SystemsRespond To Emergencies With Aerial Equipment
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
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
Certificate
Certificate in Civil Construction and Heavy Highway Equipment
Ivy Tech Community College
Certificate
Compact Equipment Operator
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
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
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
Certificate
Front-End Loader Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Certificate
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATIONS
New River Community and Technical College
Certificate
HEAVY EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY-EPIC
Trinidad State College
Associate's Degree
HEAVY EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY-EPIC
Trinidad State College
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
Certificate
Hydraulic Excavator Operator
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Certificate
Hydraulic Excavator Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
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
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
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
Certification
Mobile Crane Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP)
International Union of Operating Engineers
Apply crane safety standards and regulations to operations involving energized power lines, rigging equipment, and personnel platformsInspect and remove wire rope, slings, shackles, and rigging components from service per applicable standardsConduct pre-operational procedures including site assessment, equipment inspection, leveling, and documentationOperate crane functions including hoisting, swinging, multi-function lifts, and load pick-and-carry activitiesConfigure and monitor operator assist devices including anti-two-block, LMI, boom angle, and drum rotation indicatorsExecute emergency response procedures for power failure, power line contact, fire, and personnel injury situations
Course
Mobile Crane Operator
Crane Institute of America
$1,595 cost
Understand OSHA and ASME crane standards as they apply to mobile crane operation and safety complianceUnderstand causes and results of crane accidents to identify risk factors and prevent incidents during crane operationsIdentify types of mobile cranes, components, and terminology used in crane operation and rigging environmentsInterpret load charts accurately to determine safe lifting capacities for mobile crane operationsPerform pre-operational inspections of mobile cranes to verify equipment condition and readiness for safe operationSet up mobile cranes and recognize site hazards including ground conditions, overhead obstructions, and environmental factors prior to lifting operations
Certification
Mobile Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Evaluate ground and surface conditions to identify stability risks such as voids, slopes, excavations, depressions, and boom positioning impactsUse supporting materials to properly place mats, blocking, and cribbing for safe crane setupIdentify electrical power‑line hazards to ensure safe assembly, disassembly, and movement on the job siteAssess site access and travel requirements to determine clearances, pinch‑point exposures, and personnel safety risksCoordinate lift requirements with site supervision to align crane operations with controlling‑entity responsibilities and site conditionsInspect crane systems to detect unsafe conditions, verify wire rope integrity, and ensure proper reeving and component readiness
Certificate
Motor-Grader Operator
Hazard Community and Technical College
Course
Offshore Crane Operator Stage 1 (Introductory) Training
OPITO
Knowledge of Crane Operations Terminology In Offshore EnvironmentsIdentify and Explain Relevant Legislation Applicable to Offshore Crane OperationsKnowledge of Offshore Crane Operator Roles Responsibilities and Safety ImplicationsKnowledge of Crane Controls Safety Devices Working Limitations and Associated Hazards In Offshore OperationsKnowledge of Crane Maintenance and Inspection Requirements In Offshore OperationsOperate a Crane and Crane Simulator Following a Basic Lifting Plan
Diploma
Operating Engineer
Hazard Community and Technical College
Course
Overhead Crane
Alabama Training Network
AL
Operate Overhead Cranes SafelyApply OSHA Crane And Sling RegulationsUse Rigging In Crane Operations
Certification
Overhead Crane Certified Operator (OCCO)
United Brotherhood of Carpenters
Properly identify potential hazards when operating the craneProperly inspect all components of an overhead craneProperly operate the crane through all functions without excessive swinging or shock loadingProperly identify and follow all OSHA/ANSI voice and hand signalsKnow where to locate load capacity information in or on the craneIdentify conditions that creates a critical lift
Certification
Overhead Crane Inspector
Crane Institute of America
Identify overhead crane types including overhead hoists, underhung bridge cranes, cab-operated bridge cranes, and gantry bridge cranes using correct components and terminologyIdentify hazards associated with overhead crane operations that contribute to accidents and establish the inspector's role in reducing liability exposureEstablish an overhead crane inspection program incorporating OSHA and ASME inspection requirements, documentation procedures, and program administration responsibilitiesApply the three levels of overhead crane inspection by understanding when and how each level is required and the criteria that differentiate each levelInspect structural components of overhead cranes including bridge beams, runways, end trucks, and connections 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 action
Certification
Overhead Crane Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP)
International Union of Operating Engineers
Apply wire rope, rigging, and overhead crane safety standards in compliance with federal, state, and local regulationsConduct visual pre-operational inspections covering structural integrity, mechanical systems, wire rope, rigging, hooks, and sheavesPerform functional pre-operational checks on crane controls, limit switches, communication systems, and operator aidsExecute pre-operational maintenance procedures including daily recordkeeping and deficiency reportingCoordinate pre-lift and jobsite meetings to select rigging hardware and confirm scheduled work scopeOperate overhead crane components using standard nomenclature, operator manual guidance, and auxiliary equipment
Certification
Overhead Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Inspect crane systems to identify visual, audible, mechanical, and electrical hazards before operationVerify emergency and safety controls to ensure proper function of shutdown systems, e‑stops, limit devices, warning devices, and brake test requirementsCheck structural and mechanical components to confirm wire‑rope or chain condition, correct spooling, absence of leaks, and compliance with guard requirementsConfirm labeling and documentation to ensure control labels, capacity markings, strain‑relief requirements, and ASME B30.2 layout standards are metLocate critical safety elements to verify access to runway disconnects, fire extinguishers, bumpers/stops, and lockout/tag‑out provisionsDetermine load characteristics to accurately identify load weight and select proper rigging and below‑the‑hook lifting devices
Certification
Overhead Crane Operator & Rigger/Signalperson
Crane Institute of America
Identify types, components, and terminology of cab/pulpit operated, pendant operated, and remote control operated overhead cranes, wire rope, rigging hardware, chain hoists, and lever hoistsUnderstand causes and results of overhead crane accidents to recognize risk factors and prevent incidents during crane operationsUnderstand the operator's role in reducing overhead crane accidents and minimizing organizational liability during lifting operationsDifferentiate between equipment deficiencies and safety hazards on overhead crane systems to determine appropriate corrective actionsUnderstand structural components including sheaves, blocks, hooks, operating mechanisms, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, electrical systems, hydraulic cylinders, wire rope, operational aids, and safety devices on overhead crane systemsApply knowledge of structural, mechanical, electrical, operational, and safety and liability considerations across all areas of overhead crane operation
Short-Term Certificate
Program: Heavy Equipment Operator - Crane
Technical College of the Rockies
Certification
Rigger
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Identify load characteristics by evaluating weight, attachment points, travel path, and special handling requirementsRecognize unsafe rigging practices such as pinch points, shock loading, side loading, electrical hazards, and improper body positioningAssess load stability by determining the need for softeners, adjustments, or additional controlsIdentify jobsite hazards associated with rigging operations and communicate those hazards clearly to the crewEvaluate handling requirements to ensure the load can be moved safely through its intended travel pathApply ASME rigging standards including B30.5, B30.9, B30.10, B30.20, and B30.26 to ensure compliant rigging practices
Certificate
Service Truck Crane 2026
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Apply general crane safety practices and regulatory standards including OSHA and ASME requirements governing service truck crane operationsAssemble and set up the service truck crane including operational components control systems and safety devicesApply safety devices and operational aids to support safe service truck crane operationsPerform crane inspections testing and maintenance including rope inspection hook inspection and routine crane maintenanceOperate crane function controls to perform load handling and determine crane functionsApply load charts to verify gross and net crane capacity for planned lifts
Certification
Service Truck Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Evaluate worksite conditions to identify controlling‑entity responsibilities, operator duties, and hazards related to access, personnel, and pinch/crush pointsAssess ground stability factors to recognize subsurface voids, surface conditions, slopes, depressions, and other elements affecting crane supportUse supporting materials to properly place mats, blocking, or cribbing that ensure stable and safe crane setupIdentify electrical power‑line hazards to ensure safe site access and setup while maintaining required clearancesReview lift requirements with site supervision to confirm alignment between planned crane operations and site conditionsApply federal regulations and industry standards to ensure crane operations comply with ASME, OSHA, and SAE requirements
Certificate
Signal Person
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Apply crane communication principles including verbal and nonverbal signals in compliance with OSHA regulations and ASME B30 standardsPerform standard hand signals for crane operations in compliance with ASME B30.2 B30.3 B30.5 and B30.6 requirementsIdentify crane types and components and apply knowledge of factors related to lifting capacityApply crane safety practices and OSHA and ASME standards to support safe signal person operationsRespond to crane incidents and emergencies including side loading swinging loads boom deflection and crushing zone hazards
Short-Term Certificate
T.C. in Apprenticeship Technology-Operating Engineer
Ivy Tech Community College
Certification
Telehandler Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Complete pre‑operational inspections by identifying machine components and evaluating their condition for safe usePerform startup procedures by following required precursors, checking gauges, and observing for unusual sounds or indicatorsConduct functional checks by operating all controls, understanding interlocks, and recognizing causes of function failuresVerify availability of required load charts by ensuring all corresponding charts are present with the machine before operationComplete pre‑inspection documentation by filling out forms accurately and fully, including required signaturesConduct jobsite inspections to identify hazards, environmental factors, utilities, obstructions, and personnel locations