Crane operators love working with heavy machinery, working in teams, and have good hand-eye coordination. If this sounds like a great way to spend your working day, you could have a bright future as a crane operator.
Become a confident, safe crane professional. Choose your level and specialise across crane types where you can train on the job with EarnLearn support, build signalling and lifting capability, and progress your career.
Certificate Only process
The Certificate Only process changed on 31 August 2025.
EarnLearn is no longer accepting applications.
Pick Level 3 or Level 4 to see available strands.
Level 3 strands
On-job training with your employer plus EarnLearn guidance and assessment. Content and assessment are contextualised to your selected strand(s).
Time varies by workplace exposure, assessment progress, and off-job learning. Staying consistent helps you finish on time.
Specific licence/permit requirements vary by employer, site, and crane type.
Start a high-demand career in crane operations. Earn while you learn across Level 3 and Level 4 strands, building safe lifting practice, signalling, and technical skill on real worksites.
Build a safe, productive lifting team. We’ll help you structure on-job training and assessment that aligns to the right crane strands for your operation.
Through EarnLearn, you can work towards the New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 3)
and then progress to the New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 4). Both are completed on the job and made up of specialist strands.
Complete Level 3 first, then continue to Level 4 to specialise further.
The first step is securing work in the cranes industry. If you’re already employed, talk to your employer. If you’re starting out, contact crane businesses directly.
When you and your employer are ready, call 0800 327 648 (0800 EARN IT). We’ll send the enrolment forms; once processed, an Account Manager will induct you so training can begin.
Complete Level 3 on the job in a relevant strand (e.g., Dogman, Overhead, Self-erecting Tower, Truck Loader), building safe lifting practice, checks, and communication.
After Level 3, move into Level 4 strands (e.g., Advanced Dogman, Crawler, Mini Crawler, Mobile, Non-slewing Articulated, Tower) to take on more complex lifts and responsibilities.
Quick answers for learners and employers about New Zealand Certificates in Cranes (Level 3 & Level 4), strands, how to start, and important process updates.
You can complete the New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 3) and then progress to the New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 4). Both are completed on the job and made up of specialist strands. Most learners start at Level 3 and then specialise further at Level 4.
Level 3 strands: Cab-controlled overhead crane; Dogman; Pendant-controlled overhead crane; Self-erecting tower crane; Truck loader crane.
Level 4 strands: Advanced Dogman; Crawler crane; Mini crawler crane; Mobile crane; Non-slewing articulated crane; Tower crane.
Step 1: Find an employer in the cranes industry (or talk to your current employer).
Step 2: When you’re both ready, call 0800 327 648 (0800 EARN IT). We’ll send enrolment forms and, once processed, an Account Manager will induct you so training can begin.
Yes. Specialist strands can be completed using the casual credits process. This lets you complete individual units to meet ACOP requirements or up-skill in specific areas.
No. The Certificate Only process changed on 31 August 2025 and EarnLearn is no longer accepting applications.
Yes, you’re employed and earn a wage while you complete your training on the job. Many learners highlight the benefit of starting a career without a student loan.
EarnLearn provides free, specialised learning and wellbeing support services to all apprentices and employers during their training.
Our team will in touch as soon as possible. If your enquiry is urgent, please feel free to contact us directly.
Thank you for your submission!
Our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible. If your enquiry is urgent, please contact us:
Phone Number
Our contact centre team is available on:
0800 327 648 (0800 EARN IT)
Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 5pm
If you’re overseas, please phone +64 09 905 1748
Or email us anytime: support@waiouru.earnlearn.ac.nz
0800 327 648 (0800 EARN IT)
Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5pm
If you’re overseas, please phone
+64 09 9051748
supportel@waiouru.earnlearn.ac.nz
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