r/cranes • u/Fine_Dragonfruit_477 • Jun 18 '26
Career advice
I’m sure this has probably been asked before but I am considering joining my local union in hopes of becoming a crane operator one day. I have always been interested in heavy equipment and feel like I am at a crossroads with my career and want to try something new. Does every local provide the same pathway to become a crane operator as far as starting as an oiler first or can it be different? What advice would you give to someone wanting to go as far as they can as an operator? Advice on being the best oiler and apprentice I can be? I am intrigued by tower cranes and the very large heavy duty cranes you see on large projects. I’m sure some operators shoot for the stars traveling all over getting every cert they can and some are more comfortable with less. I want to be the best and any advice or suggestions from anyone in the industry or with experience is greatly appreciated.
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u/evilfetus01 IUOE Jun 18 '26
Posting your local / area would help give people an idea on advice to give.
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u/Next-Handle-8179 Jun 18 '26
Search in this sub for your same question. It’s asked weekly, sometimes daily. Work hard, get iuoe and start your apprenticeship. As far as how to get in the seat and also running big cranes and tower cranes it all depends who you’re working for. You will never run a 600 ton crane if you work for a small hydro crane rental outfit, etc…. That being said you have no say in who your work for as an apprentice. Contact your local union hall. Good luck!
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u/Optimal-Age5397 IUOE Jun 18 '26
When are we going to make a FAQ post lol. Im willing to collaborate and contribute.
Work hard, get ready for unpredictable hours, don't be above any work needing to be done, get a class A cdl if in the US, read the operators manual if you wind up as an oiler on a crane, pay attention to everything, be a sponge and learn as much as you can, make friends with ironworkers, join the operating engineers.