TAKE SKILLS FROM YOUR SERVICE TO NEW HEIGHTS.

In the crane industry, your discipline, work ethic, and attention to detail carry forward.

The skills you built in the military are the same qualities strong crane operators rely on every day. This is a career where your decisions matter and your training shows. You will find structure in the crane industry, but more importantly, you will find purpose in work that supports real people and real communities.

EXPLORE CAREERS

You perform under pressure.

“As a crane operator, my favorite thing is that I’m in complete control of the most important piece of equipment on the project.” – Military Veteran in Cranes

The crane industry calls you to show up prepared, focused, and ready to perform. Every lift is different. Every job site brings new challenges. If you are someone who takes pride in responsibility and performs well under pressure, this is a career where you can thrive.

WHY CRANES

You keep your team safe.

“Attention to detail is huge in the military. It’s bigger in cranes and rigging. It’s a great skill that transfers over well.” – Military Veteran in Cranes

You have trained to make smart decisions, support your team, and step up when it counts. Crane operators do this every day. Your ability to stay composed, lead with confidence, and take responsibility makes you a strong fit for the industry.

GET STARTED

Serious about learning more?

Request to be matched with a Crane Career Advisor—a real, full-time professional in the industry—who can help answer your questions.

GET AN ADVISOR

EARN STABILITY. EMBRACE THE CHALLENGE.

After military service, it is natural to look for stability—but you don’t have to settle. The crane industry offers clear paths forward with hands-on work, structure, and room to grow. Find the position that meets your skills, needs, and ambitions.

Mobile Crane Operator

Take responsibility for operating versatile, powerful lifting machines at the heart of every major construction and manufacturing project.

Rigger

Work closely with massive machinery as you prepare equipment, secure materials, and calculate loads for safe, precise lifts.

Tower Crane Operator

Command one of the most impressive machines on any construction site, lifting and maneuvering heavy materials to the sky with skill and precision.

Crane Technician / Mechanic

Solve complex mechanical puzzles as you diagnose issues and perform crucial maintenance to keep cranes running like clockwork.

Articulating Crane Operator

Master the knuckle-boom crane to make safe, agile lifts in some of the industry's most demanding environments, from confined spaces to forests and docks.

Signalperson

Orchestrate precise movements of colossal loads, knowing critical communication skills keep lifts efficient and your team safe.

Drill Rig Operator

Picture yourself on the frontlines of discovery and development, operating powerful rigs in thrilling environments and diverse industries.

Lift Director

Embrace the thrill of managing complex crane and lifting operations with leadership that ensures coordination, safety, and efficiency.

Take command of your future.

GET STARTED WITH BUILDING BLOCKS FOR YOUR CAREER IN CRANES.

MEET THE BASICS

You’ll need to be at least 18, have a high school diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, and be physically ready for hands-on outdoor work.

GET YOUR CDL

Though not essential, many crane operators start by earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to transport crane equipment. Local CDL schools and some employers offer paid training.

LEARN THE TRADES

Find a quality crane operator training program, or an entry-level job at a crane company, or union apprenticeship near you. Learn setup, rigging, signaling, safety, and real-world operation. Many training programs offer help with taking and passing required certification exams to help you get a leg up.

TIP: Check for veteran-specific education and training programs. Alongside your TAP resources, additional funding and benefits may be available to you!

Build Experience

Start as a rigger, signalperson, or apprentice operator. With every lift, you’ll gain confidence, earn certifications, and open doors to bigger opportunities.

TIP: Explore military skills translation tools to help leverage your experience from technical expertise to your critical teamwork skills and unbeatable worth ethic.

Continue the mission. Build something that matters.

Every time you step into the cab, you are doing more than operating equipment.

With a career in cranes, you’ll build something meaningful for your future, your team, and the communities you serve. This is hands-on work with lasting impact, built on strengths you already have. It is leadership in action, with real impact.

START NOW

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