Crane and Tower Operators
Crane and tower operators control mechanical equipment that lifts and moves heavy materials, machines, and products across construction sites, factories, and warehouses. They work from operator cabs or ground stations, using cables and booms to position loads in multiple directions according to supervisor instructions and safety protocols.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crane and tower operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves inspecting equipment before shifts, positioning loads using hand signals or radio communication with ground personnel, and monitoring weight limits and clearances. Operators may work on multiple jobs throughout the week, adjusting cable tension, swinging loads over obstacles, and setting materials in precise locations. Weather conditions and project schedules determine shift length and intensity.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and comfortable following established procedures—people in this field tend to be practical problem-solvers who prefer structured tasks over open-ended decisions. Strong hand-eye coordination, mechanical thinking, and the ability to stay focused during repetitive operations are common strengths.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- MATERIALS HANDLER (CRANE/FORK LIFT OPERATOR) · Air Mobility Command · Charleston AFB, South Carolina · $58415–$68161
- Crane Operator · U.S. Army Corps of Engineers · Marietta, Ohio · $32.57–$38
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $118,140 | $124,260 | $127,820 | 190 |
| Nevada | $100,280 | $115,840 | $135,000 | 380 |
| Rhode Island | $76,610 | $104,340 | $127,210 | — |
| Washington | $79,150 | $101,110 | $124,520 | 1,030 |
| New Jersey | $90,020 | $100,640 | $124,700 | 1,000 |
| Massachusetts | $76,610 | $98,150 | $129,790 | 680 |
| Alaska | $81,930 | $92,490 | $96,740 | 50 |
| Maryland | $73,240 | $87,950 | $87,950 | — |
| New York | $70,110 | $85,850 | $126,050 | 1,150 |
| Oregon | $63,190 | $83,260 | $122,500 | 340 |
| North Dakota | $70,880 | $82,890 | $89,920 | 180 |
| Montana | $74,170 | $82,800 | $95,840 | 30 |
All 50 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Tower Crane Operator — National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
- Tower Crane Operator Certification (NCCER) — National Center for Construction Education and Research
- Certified Crane Operator - Lattice Boom Truck Crane (CCO) — National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
- Certified Crane Operator - Lattice Boom Crawler Crane (CCO) — National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
- Overhead Crane Operator — National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
- Mobile Crane Operator Certification — National Center for Construction Education and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crane and tower operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.