Crane and Tower Operators


Architecture and Construction > Crane and Tower Operators > Working Conditions
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Crane and Tower Operators

Crane and Tower Operators - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, crane and tower operators:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a medium-high level of social contact. They direct and take instructions from other workers, but spend time alone inside their equipment.
  • Are significantly responsible for the health and safety of other workers.
  • Are somewhat responsible for the work done by other workers.
  • Often work as part of a team.
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  • May occasionally be placed in conflict situations in which others may become rude or angry.
  • Communicate mostly in person. They sometimes communicate by telephone.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Nearly always work outdoors, but may on occasion work indoors. Temperatures may vary due to weather.
  • Regularly wear protective attire, such as hard hats and steel-toe boots.
  • Are regularly exposed to contaminants.
  • Are exposed to high places on a weekly basis.
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  • Are sometimes exposed to sound and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.
  • Are sometimes exposed to whole body vibration while operating cranes.
  • Work in extremely bright or very dim lighting conditions on a weekly basis.
  • Are often exposed to hazardous equipment.
  • May experience whole body vibration due to working equipment.
  • Work inside enclosed equipment.

Work Performance

  • Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could result in serious safety hazards.
  • Must allow the work pace to be set by the speed of the equipment.
  • Make decisions on a daily basis that greatly impact their employer, coworkers, and clients.
  • Repeat the same physical activities.
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  • Often make decisions without consulting a supervisor, but not always.
  • Set most of their daily tasks and goals by discussing them with a supervisor first.
  • Must meet weekly deadlines.

Hours/Travel

  • Usually work a regular 40-hour week.
  • Schedules may vary with weather.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.