What is a Cherry Picker Operator?

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Are you interested in growing your career in machine operation? Wondering what skills and responsibilities align with a Cherry Picker role? This is the blog for you. Read on to better understand what a cherry picker operator is and an overview of common responsibilities and required skills to help you better understand whether this is the right path for you.  

Job Overview 

A cherry picker operator is someone who uses a hydraulic crane to raise and lower other people on an aerial work platform to a specific work site above the ground. Operators typically work in the construction, agricultural,utility service and maintenance industries, although some warehouse positions are available as well. As a cherry picker operator, your responsibilities would include using the cherry picker machine to elevate workers for maintenance, repairs, and other related tasks. The operator controls the machine from the car, using controls to hoist the boom end (and the technician inside) high into the air. This role requires extensive experience in a warehouse or construction settings, and additional qualifications may include experience operating related machinery, good physical strength and stamina, and strong organization skills. 

Equipment operators are a highly valued and necessary part of the warehouse and business sectors. To do their job well, operators must always follow safe operating rules. They must always maintain control of the machines, keep a proper lookout, and operate their equipment at speeds safe for the particular operation and worksite conditions. Training is critical to prepare operators for the hazards and requirements of the job.  

Required Skills and Expertise 

Equipment operators such as cherry pickers need to have excellent attention to detail. They also need a strong knowledge of their machines, excellent coordination, and good time management skills. They also benefit from strong interpersonal and communication skills. Operators need to be in very good physical condition and able to work on their feet for prolonged periods of time. But in addition to all that, training and certification for operating specific machines is also often required. 

Qualifications needed to become a cherry picker operator include a high school diploma and required hand-eye coordination to operate heavy machinery. Depending on where you work, you may need additional skills related to taking inventory and filling orders. Duties sometimes include driving a forklift or other type of heavy-lifting equipment. This may require additional training or certification. Responsibilities include the safe operation of an aerial work platform, so you may need to take OSHA-approved training before beginning your job. Some employers provide training for new operators, while others require additional machinery experience, so make sure you read the job descriptions fully to understand the requirements of each individual role you apply for. 

Industry Outlook 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of material moving machine operators such as cherry pickers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031. That’s about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 100,000 openings for operators are projected each year. Most of those are expected to result from turnover in the industry due to retirement and natural attrition. The median annual wage for material moving machine operators was about $40,000 last year. Work conditions are those found in warehouse or industrial settings. Workers should expect to work full time or more than 40 hours per week. Some operators work overnight shifts as the industry operates around the clock. So consider what shift type works best for your lifestyle before applying for various opportunities as they arise.  

Find The Best Jobs In Nashville

For help finding cherry picker jobs near me, connect with the recruiting team at All-Star Personnel. We’ll help you find the job that fits your needs as we transition into the end of the year.  

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