National data — wages and growth are not published by state for this view.
Certification
Telehandler Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
Median earnings
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Cost
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Duration
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Completion
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The CCO Telehandler Task Force that developed this certification program was made up of experts from all aspects of the telehandler industry—operators, users, trainers, safety supervisors, manufacturers—who together represent many thousands of hours of telehandler-related experience.
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 locationsEvaluate ground and environmental conditions to determine effects on stability, frame leveling, and safe machine operationApply regulatory requirements by referencing OSHA powerline rules, ITSDF B56.6 responsibilities, and site‑specific proceduresMitigate site hazards by establishing barriers, implementing traffic control, and consulting appropriate personnel for adjustmentsParticipate in job briefings to communicate hazards, responsibilities, and safety expectations before work beginsDevelop lift plans by assessing load weight, dimensions, center of gravity, travel path, and attachment capacityVerify attachment suitability by checking manufacturer approvals, capacity plates, and proper installation or storage proceduresInstall required attachments by relieving hydraulic pressure, selecting proper equipment, and confirming correct installationDetermine handling configurations by positioning forks or hooks relative to load center of gravity and confirming boom length and quadrantStabilize the telehandler by leveling the frame, evaluating ground bearing capacity, and barricading the swing radius per safety requirementsMaintain load stability by performing frame leveling, applying securement techniques, and managing load shift dynamicsOperate steering modes by selecting 2‑wheel, 4‑wheel, or crab steering appropriate to terrain, maneuvering, and travel needsTravel safely with loads by controlling speed, using taglines when necessary, adjusting boom position, and evaluating ground conditionsFollow communication signals by applying standard voice and hand signals and determining when a spotter is requiredLift and place loads safely by understanding load type differences, conducting critical lifts, and following personnel‑lift proceduresPerform shutdown procedures by applying correct processes for unattended equipment, adjustments, or end‑of‑day shutdowns