Crane Operator: history and fun facts
Everything a curious kid might want to know about this job.
Did you know?
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Many crane operators sit high above the ground in a small cabin, so they can see the whole building site below.
Through history
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Long ago
People used simple cranes made of wood and ropes, powered by people or animals pulling them, to lift big stones for buildings.
Tools of the trade
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Hook
The big hook at the end of the cable grabs the load, so the crane can lift it up and carry it to the right spot.
A day in the job
- 7:00 AMThe operator arrives at the site, checks the crane, and makes sure the cables and hook are safe before the day's first lift.
- LunchtimeThe operator climbs down from the cabin, has a snack and a rest, and stretches their legs before climbing back up to keep lifting.
Words to know
- Radio
- A radio is a small device used to talk over a distance. A helper on the ground uses it to tell the crane operator where to move the load.
Quiz time
A crane operator only digs holes in the ground.
A crane can help lift a heavy steel beam to the top of a building.