How to Become A Crane Operator South Africa

Crane operators lift and transport heavy materials and equipment to and from higher and lower levels at locations such as building and construction sites, wharves and shipyards.

Below is How to Become A Crane Operator South Africa

You’ll need to obtain a high risk work licence, working at heights accreditation, intermediate rigging accreditation and a dogging licence through Safe Work Australia.

You’ll need a White Card to enter construction sites anywhere in Australia, available through registered training organisations.

You’ll also need a Heavy Combination (HC) and Heavy Rigid (HR) truck licences. Check with your local traffic authority for more information.

Complete a Certificate III in Construction Crane Operations (CPC32912).

This qualification has a strong focus on safety requirements given the high risk nature of the role, and prepares you to work in the residential and commercial construction industry.

How long does it take to become a crane operator in South Africa?

The crane or hoist training course is centred around the guidelines of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993.

This class comprises of four modules and takes up to three days to complete the entire class. Once you have passed the class, you will receive a certificate which will remain valid for two years.

How much does a crane operator earn in South Africa?

Salary Recap

The average pay for a Tower Crane Operator is ZAR 213,220 a year and ZAR 103 an hour in South Africa. The average salary range for a Tower Crane Operator is between ZAR 157,303 and ZAR 263,193.

What qualifications do I need to be a crane operator?

While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a crane operator, there are several routes you could take to help you pursue this career. You could complete a college course or an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work.

Where do I start to become a crane operator?

Follow these career steps to become a crane operator:

Earn a high school diploma or GED.

Enroll in a trade school.

Complete a general operator training program.

Secure an apprenticeship.

Obtain your Crane Operator Certification.

Get local certification and licenses.

Prepare your resume.

Apply for crane operator positions.


What is the highest paid crane operator in South Africa?

Highest paying cities in South Africa for Crane Operators

Johannesburg, Gauteng. 12 salaries reported. R 18 483. per month.

Boksburg, Gauteng. 5 salaries reported. R 15 796. per month.

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. 5 salaries reported. R 14 745. per month.

Kathu, Northern Cape. 5 salaries reported. R 11 006. per month.

Is crane operator a good career?

Choosing to pursue a career as a crane operator can be an excellent career choice if you know where to begin. The fact is that it’s a competitive industry, and there will be many qualified candidates jostling for the same positions you are.

Are Crane Operators in demand?

Today, Crane Operators are in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Crane Operator jobs are expected to grow 8% from 2014 to 2024. This is slightly above the national average for the universal job market, but well above the national average for highly skilled jobs.

Is it hard to get a job as a crane operator?

By becoming a certified mobile crane operator, you will become eligible for operating a crane on construction and building sites where heavy materials are moved frequently. The job of a crane operator is hard, yet rewarding work. It requires a considerable amount of practice and professional training.