Positions in this series operate, maintain, and perform routine repairs on a Liebherr 550 HC or similar tower crane in support of forest canopy research.

This is the expert level of the series. Positions operate a tower crane to transport people and equipment to the forest canopy. Consults with researchers to develop work plans that meet research project needs. Ensures crane safety including knowledge of gondola rescue techniques. Conducts daily inspections of the crane and all related operating equipment prior to crane operation. Navigates load jib with gondola to specified sites within the forest canopy. Performs maintenance and repairs.

Operates a Liebherr 550 HC or similar tower crane;

Acts as Site Safety Officer and ensures the safe operation of the tower crane;

Consults with researchers prior to operations to develop a work plan that meets the needs of the research project(s), maintains safety standards, and eliminates or minimizes damage to the research area;

Practices and trains in vertical rope rescue and tree climbing;

Performs all required crane inspections;

Work with crane operation consultants to learn specifics of crane operation, maintenance and repair protocol;

Directs other staff who support crane operation;

Ensures that shop facilities used to support the maintenance, operation and repair of the crane and related equipment are operated and maintained according to research needs and all applicable safety standards;

Purchases crane related materials (gondola, fencing, rigging, crane components) and all other tools and equipment as required;

Operates and maintains other heavy equipment such as loaders, bulldozers, backhoes, snowplows, and bobcats;

May perform carpentry and metal fabrication in support of field station operation.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Positions require five years of experience operating Tower Cranes or equivalent training gained through a vocational school or other apprentice program.

New class effective June 1, 2005; Tower Crane Operator – Research 4 (replaces 5278 Tower Crane Operator-Research).
Revised title, formerly Tower Crane Operator – Research 4; adopted August 13, 2009, effective August 14, 2009.