Employers require specific multi-stage crane operating certifications and hundreds of hours of documented hands-on practice.

You cannot just jump onto an offshore rig crane. You need a formal crane license like API RP 2D or an OPITO Stage 1 certificate. Standard training requires at least 150 hours of logged hands-on practice. The first 25 hours are strictly limited to basic lifts on the main deck. You are not allowed to lift anything from moving boats until you prove you can safely handle emergency load-lowering.