Main job:
Oversee crane operations on site to keep people safe and work on track.
Key Responsibilities
1. Plan lifts: Check crane plans, permits, and risk assessments before work starts
2. Crew management: Supervise operators, slongers, signallers, and banksmen
3. Safety checks: Ensure cranes are inspected, certified, and fit for use
4. Lifting operations: Watch lifts, check loads, confirm signals, and manage ground conditions
5. Traffic management: Keep pedestrians/vehicles clear of swing zones
6. Emergency response: Know the rescue plan if something goes wrong
7. Logbooks & records: Check crane maintenance logs, LOLER regs
Requirements – UK 2026
- Quals needed: CPCS Crane Supervisor card (red/blue depending on crane type). Often need an operative ticket too (e.g., mobile/tower crane)
- Experience: 2-5 years operating cranes + supervisory experience
- Knowledge: LOLER 1998, PUWER, HSG150, site rules
- Skills: Risk assess, handle pressure, communicate clearly
Typical day
- Pre-start: Check crane docs, crew briefings, plan lifts
- During: Watch operations, check signals, sort issues
- Post-shift: Debrief, report problems, update records