Lifting technician - tower Crane Operator

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in Construction and the Built Environment and engineering and manufacturing industry.

Lifting technicians work in various settings where heavy machinery, equipment, or materials need to be moved or lifted. These could be construction sites, manufacturing facilities, power plants, transportation infrastructure, aerospace, and aviation.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to ensure the safe and efficient movement of heavy objects, machinery, or materials in various industries and settings. 

Lifting technicians follow safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to property. They ensure that lifting operations comply with safety regulations and standards.

Lifting technicians operate cranes to lift, move, and position heavy loads safely and accurately. They perform routine maintenance and inspections on lifting equipment to ensure that it is in good working condition and meets safety standards. 

Lifting technicians are skilled in slinging and load handling techniques, including selecting and attaching lifting accessories such as slings, shackles, and hooks to securely lift and move loads. They communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, customer, and other personnel involved in lifting operations to ensure lifting activities are safe and to avoid accidents.

Lifting technicians work collaboratively with others to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, equipment malfunctions, and logistical challenges that may arise during lifting operations. They work efficiently to complete lifting tasks on schedule and within time constraints.  

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with a wide range of different stakeholders, including clients, contractors, members of the public, supervisors, and other occupations. Lifting technicians often work under the supervision of managers or team leaders who oversee lifting operations, provide guidance, and ensure adherence to safety protocols and project requirements.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for facilitating the safe and efficient movement of loads in various industries and settings. Lifting Technicians combine technical skills, safety knowledge, and communication abilities to perform their duties effectively while prioritising the health and safety of personnel and property. This is a core and option apprenticeship standard. Apprentices will be trained and assessed against the core and one option occupation. There are four options. 

• Mobile Crane Operators control cranes mounted on vehicles. 
• Crawler Crane Operator control cranes that move on tracks or crawlers instead of wheels. 
• Tower Crane Operators control tall, fixed position cranes. 
• Overhead Crane Operators control cranes with a moveable bridge carrying a moveable or fixed hoisting mechanism travelling on an overhead fixed runway structure.

Typical job titles include:

Option duties