All across Alberta crane operators are in demand. Crane operators have unique skills which make them different than a heavy equipment operator. In Fort McMurray there is a lot of development happening due to Canada’s oilsands industry. Crane operators are essential in moving equipment, developing equipment, and positioning heavy objects around the work site.

Employment requirements

Crane operators in Canada have the following skill requirements:

• Successfully complete an apprenticeship program, college program, or private industry training program
• If you would like to specialize in a particular crane type (overhead, mobile, or fixed) a certification may be required in your province.
• If you would like to become certified across all of the Canadian provinces, you will need to receive a red seal endorsement from the Red Seal Interprovincial Standards Program

Main duties:

• Operate overhead, mobile, or fixed cranes to lift and position equipment and materials
• Inspect equipment and perform routine maintenance to ensure crane safety
• Calculate load capacity, prepare lift site, and direct workers with rigging requirements
• Operate cranes in a variety of locations such as: boats, raised platforms, unleveled terrain in often harsh weather conditions

Training options

In order to become a crane operator in Canada you will need to complete an apprenticeship, college program, or a private training program in your local province.

Apprenticeship or on the job training

If you are looking for an apprenticeship near you I would recommend contacting crane operators or construction companies in your area for recommendations. They may be currently looking for employees that you could train on the job. Another good place to look would be a local job search for crane operator apprenticeships.

College courses

Crane & Hoisting Equipment Operator – Boom Truck(Northern Lakes College)
Northern Lakes College
Slave Lake, Alberta

Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator – Mobile Crane(Keyano College)
Keyano College
Fort McMurray, Alberta

Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator (Boom Truck) Apprenticeship(Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT))
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
Edmonton, Alberta

Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator (Mobile Crane) Apprenticeship(Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT))
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
Edmonton, Alberta