The proportion of part-time workers has increased significantly in these occupations over the last 10 years. These rates are among the highest for technical, skilled and paraprofessional occupations. Persons 15 to 29 years old make up a large proportion of new hires in these occupations, indicating that these are often entry-level positions. The separation rate in these occupations is high, due in large part to the seasonal character of employment in these occupations. Employment in these occupations is highly sensitive to overall economic conditions and highly seasonal.
Crane operators require an apprenticeship of one to three years or crane operation courses.
In some provinces, crane, boom truck, mobile and tower crane operators require trade certification. Mobile crane operators may require a licence to drive on public roads. Blasters usually require a blasting licence and may need experience as blaster helpers in surface mining and quarrying. They may also be self-employed. The industries that employ these workers are experiencing slow or deteriorating labour growth.