New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation (Lvl 3)
Qualification Overview
Crane operators are highly skilled individuals with a significant level of responsibility on a work site, they require a high level of skill and knowledge and understand the environments ion which they sling loads and operate. Cranes are complex machines that have significant and inherent risk when in operation. Many cranes now have In-built computers that can control a crane's function helping the operator to carry out operations safely and efficiently.
Purpose of the Programme
This programme is designed to provide a flexible pathway for people engaged in the crane industry in New Zealand. Graduates will be capable of working with limited supervision, able to correctly and safely operate remote controlled overhead or truck loader cranes and gain a nationally recognised qualification.
The crane industry as a whole, and the building and construction industry in particular, will benefit from having people who have qualified in crane operation through a structured, recognised, and consistent training programme.
This qualification is divided into strands.
Only Private Training Organisation to Deliver This Qualification
AMS Group is one of two organisations credited through NZQA to deliver the New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation Level 3 with strands in Cab Controlled Overhead Cranes (Gantry Cranes) and Truck Loader Crane (Hiab). Please refer to the following links on NZQA's website for more information.
Programme Overview
Each programme offers a focused skill in the the Crane Operators on the job machinery experience, however there are a number of key outcomes for the trainee that include but are not limited to:
- Sling regular loads safely using the correct lifting equipment on a worksite;
- Communicate and collaborate with dogmen and other crane operator(s) effectively using industry recognised methods during crane operations;
- Maintain personal safety on the worksite, and during crane operations;
- Identify hazards and work safely in and around a crane workplace; and
- Safely operate a remote controlled overhead crane, or a truck loader crane to lift, move and place loads
Graduates of this programme will be able to work with limited supervision and will be a benefit to any employer in the Crane, Building and Construction sectors.
Programme Structure
Within each strand the course is divided up into components. These components are designed to create a relevant learning pathway and a structured and logical development of knowledge. The following components are included with the programmes.
Cab Controlled Overhead Strand
| Unit Standard | Description | Credit Value |
| Component 1 | Workplace Health and Safety | |
| 497 | Demonstrate knowledge of workplace health and safety | 3 |
| 17593 | Apply safe work practices in the workplace | 4 |
| 17602 | Apply hazard identification and risk assessment procedures in the workplace | 4 |
| 25043 | Lockout and reinstate machinery in the workplace | 4 |
|
Component 2 |
Introduction to the crane environment, lifting gear, and slinging loads |
|
| 3788 | Demonstrate knowledge of crane types, and safe practices required in the crane industry | 4 |
| 3789 | Sling regular loads and communicate during crane operations | 22 |
| Component 3 | Crane Elective Radio Remote or Pendant Controlled strand | |
| 3800 | Operate a radio remote or pendant controlled overhead crane and lift and place regular loads | 10 |
| 51 credits in total |
Truck Loader Crane Strand
| Unit Standard | Description | Credit Value |
| Component 1 | Workplace Health and Safety | |
| 497 | Demonstrate knowledge of workplace health and safety | 3 |
| 17593 | Apply safe work practices in the workplace | 4 |
| 17602 | Apply hazard identification and risk assessment procedures in the workplace | 4 |
| 25043 | Lockout and reinstate machinery in the workplace | 4 |
|
Component 2 |
Introduction to the crane environment, lifting gear, and slinging loads |
|
| 3788 | Demonstrate knowledge of crane types, and safe practices required in the crane industry | 4 |
| 3789 | Sling regular loads and communicate during crane operations | 22 |
| Component 3 | Crane Elective Cab Controlled Overhead Strand | |
| 16617 | Use a truck loader crane to lift and place loads | 15 |
| 56 credits in total |
Pre-Requisites
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes.
- Be employed by an organisation operating in the industry.
Duration and Delivery
This programme is 12 months and is designed to fit the schedule of the trainees who maintain fulltime employment.
The programme is delivered with a blended approach and includes:
- Face to face teaching hours
- Self directed learning hours
- Work Experience - On the Job Learning
With components of the programme delivered face to face and online.
AMS Group Crane Trainers
AMS Group Crane Trainers are hand picked with extensive industry experience and have been training for many years. Our trainers use their extensive experience and industry to deliver a solution that will provide you with the assurance that your future is in the best hands.
Programme Costs
Price on Application
Please note that no funding is currently available for work based programmes and is based on a full cost recovery. Pricing will depend on the number or trainee's per worksite and locations. Talk with us today for more information or for an application form and next intake dates.
Scheduled Course Locations
Please note that courses are available at a number of AMS Group branch locations, these are listed below. If there are no course locations shown below, courses can be arranged to be delivered at your place of work. Contact us to find out more about our on-site training options available for this course or enquire below.



