Lifting the Bar: Recruiting the Best of the Best in the Overhead Crane Industry

As a recruiter at American Crane & Equipment Corporation, I’ve seen my fair share of heavy lifting—and I’m not just talking about the cranes. Recruiting in the overhead crane industry is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, and the haystack is made of solid steel, and the needle has an engineering degree. This sector is the backbone of many industries, from manufacturing to nuclear energy, and the need for top-notch professionals continues to get heavier.

The Talent Shortage: The Shallow End of the Pool

One of our current challenges is having to swim in the shallow end of the talent pool. The overhead crane industry is highly specialized, demanding a workforce with expertise that goes beyond the basics. We’re talking about mechanical systems, engineering principles, safety protocols, and technical know-how. Unfortunately, these skills don’t just grow on trees, and they’re certainly not something you can pick up with a weekend YouTube binge. The result? Fierce competition for qualified professionals, and a need for us to be as strategic as a chess grandmaster when it comes to attracting and keeping the best in the business.

The Must-Haves: What We’re Looking For

Interested in joining American Crane as a Crane & Hoist Service Technician? Having the following will lift you to the top of our list:

• Technical Expertise: We want candidates with a background in mechanics, hydraulics, and electronics—basically, someone who can make a crane dance the tango if needed. Experience with crane systems, hoists, and other lifting equipment is a must.
• Safety Awareness: Safety isn’t just a checkbox here; it’s our mantra. We’re looking for people who eat, sleep, and breathe OSHA regulations and other safety standards. You know, the kind of person who would wear a hard hat to a picnic.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Our ideal candidate can troubleshoot on the fly—whether it’s a malfunctioning crane or a rogue seagull on the job site. Quick thinking is the name of the game.
• Certifications and Training: NCCCO certifications? Yes, please. We love candidates who commit to professional standards and continuous learning. It’s like having an extra layer of armor on your resume.

Industry Know-How and the All-Important Cultural Fit

We value technical skills, but we also seek individuals who immerse themselves in the industry culture. The overhead crane industry isn’t just about moving heavy stuff; it’s about understanding the nuances, challenges, and advancements that come with the territory. We want candidates who geek out over the latest crane technology, stay on top of safety protocols, and know what regulatory changes are around the corner.

Cultural fit is an enormous piece of the American Crane puzzle. We’re looking for people who not only have the technical chops but also align with our values, including our commitment to GRIT Matters. GRIT is at the core of our success – we believe in putting Perseverance, Heart, and Integrity in everything we do. You can learn more about how GRIT happens at American Crane by visiting americancrane.com.

The Road Ahead

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the overhead crane industry is evolving, and so are the skills we need. At American Crane, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve by refining our recruitment strategies and ensuring our team is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. So, if you’re up for the challenge, we’re ready to lift you to new heights—literally and figuratively. Visit Careers (americancrane.com) or email me at dfritzinger@americancrane.com to find out how we can work together.