Offshore crane operators are skilled professionals who operate cranes used in the oil and gas and offshore wind industries. These cranes are used to lift and move heavy equipment, supplies, and personnel between offshore platforms and vessels. The job requires a combination of technical and non-technical skills, as well as relevant experience and qualifications.

Experience Required

To become an offshore crane operator, it is typically necessary to have previous experience operating cranes in a related industry. This may include experience working as a crane operator onshore, on a construction site, or in a heavy equipment rental company.

In addition, many offshore crane operators have experience working in the oil and gas or offshore wind industry. This may include experience working as a roustabout, deckhand, or other entry-level offshore position, as well as experience working on a drilling rig or offshore platform.

Qualifications Required

In addition to relevant experience, offshore crane operators must have the necessary qualifications and certifications to operate cranes safely and effectively.

The specific qualifications required may vary depending on the type of crane being operated and the location of the offshore operation. Some of the common qualifications and certifications include:

• Crane Operator Certification: Most offshore crane operators are required to have certification from an accredited training provider, such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) in the USA or the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) in the UK. The certification process typically includes written and practical exams to ensure that the operator has the necessary knowledge and skills to operate the crane safely.
• Offshore Safety Training: Offshore crane operators must have the necessary safety training to work in an offshore environment. This may include training in basic offshore safety, such as the Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) in the UK or the Basic Safety Training (BST) in the USA. Other specialized safety training may be required, such as Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) or sea survival training.
• Technical Education: Many offshore crane operators have a technical education or background, such as a degree or certification in engineering, mechanics, or electronics. This can be helpful in understanding the technical aspects of crane operations and troubleshooting any issues that may arise.