Position
Salary

How much does a Crane Operator make?

The average salary for a Crane Operator is $53,082 per year in the US.

Crane operators play a vital role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. The average yearly salary for a crane operator is $53,082. This figure shows that a career in crane operation can be both rewarding and financially stable. With experience, operators can expect to earn more, with top earners making close to $95,000 annually.

Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, industry, and experience. Urban areas and regions with high demand for construction often offer higher wages. Operators working in oil fields or large manufacturing plants might also see better pay compared to those in smaller towns. Those who achieve certifications or additional training may find themselves in higher-paying positions. Continuous professional development can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Crane Operator?

Crane operators in Abilene, TX, enjoy one of the highest average salaries at $85,667. Boston, MA, and Manchester, NH, also offer competitive wages for crane operators, with averages around $77,000 and $75,000, respectively. Other cities like Fort Collins, CO, and Washington, DC, provide attractive compensation packages for crane operators.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Crane Operator jobs, highlighting Abilene, TX with the highest at $85,667 and Beaumont, TX with the lowest at $68,311.
  1. Abilene, TX
    Average Salary: $85,667
    Abilene offers opportunities in oil and construction, with major companies like Exxon and Bechtel. Crane operators here enjoy stable work with room to advance. The demand for skilled operators supports steady job prospects.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Abilene, TX


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $77,039
    In Boston, operators work in bustling construction and shipping industries. Companies like North Star Marine and Raytheon offer many jobs. Professionals here benefit from diverse projects and a dynamic job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $75,333
    Manchester's economy thrives on manufacturing and logistics. Companies like BAE Systems and Manchester Airport provide good opportunities. Crane operators can find steady work with potential for career growth.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Manchester, NH


  4. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $73,000
    Fort Collins is a hub for construction and agriculture. Local companies like TruGreen and Pella Windows offer many openings. Workers enjoy a mix of urban and rural projects, with a focus on safety and skill.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $71,659
    In Washington, DC, operators work in government and private sectors. Companies like Parsons and AECOM provide many jobs. Working in the capital city offers unique experiences and networking opportunities.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $70,864
    Baltimore has a strong port and industrial base. Major employers include Crowley Maritime and Northrop Grumman. Crane operators here benefit from a mix of maritime and construction projects.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  7. Baton Rouge, LA
    Average Salary: $69,567
    Baton Rouge offers opportunities in oil, gas, and manufacturing. Companies like Dow Chemical and ExxonMobil provide many jobs. Operators here enjoy a lively work environment and room for advancement.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA


  8. Billings, MT
    Average Salary: $69,493
    Billings is known for its energy sector. Companies like BNSF Railway and ConocoPhillips offer many positions. Operators here benefit from the stability of the energy industry and scenic surroundings.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Billings, MT


  9. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $68,416
    Colorado Springs has a diverse economy with aerospace and tourism. Companies like United Launch Alliance and Broadmoor Hotel provide many jobs. Workers enjoy a vibrant community and varied projects.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  10. Beaumont, TX
    Average Salary: $68,311
    Beaumont's economy thrives on energy and manufacturing. Companies like Chevron and Huntsman Corporation offer many opportunities. Operators here benefit from a strong industrial base and a supportive community.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Beaumont, TX

What are the best companies a Crane Operator can work for?

If you are seeking a Crane Operator position, consider applying to Savard Labor & Marine Staffing. This company offers a top average salary, making it a great choice for job seekers. Paramount Placement also stands out with its above-average compensation, providing an attractive opportunity for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Crane Operator jobs, highlighting Savard Labor & Marine Staffing with the highest at $142,598 and MasTec Inc with the lowest at $74,445.
  1. Savard Labor & Marine Staffing
    Average Salary: $142,598
    Savard Labor & Marine Staffing offers exciting opportunities for Crane Operators. They work in various maritime and construction projects along the coasts. Locations include New Orleans, LA; Houston, TX; and Jacksonville, FL. The company emphasizes safety and skill development.


  2. Paramount Placement
    Average Salary: $87,206
    Paramount Placement provides diverse roles for Crane Operators in construction and infrastructure. They operate in major cities like Los Angeles, CA; Denver, CO; and Miami, FL. The company values experienced operators and offers competitive benefits.


  3. Kokosing Construction
    Average Salary: $83,133
    Kokosing Construction offers Crane Operator jobs focusing on road and bridge projects. They work in states like Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. The company provides a strong emphasis on teamwork and safety.


  4. McMillen, Inc.
    Average Salary: $78,575
    McMillen, Inc. provides Crane Operator positions in large-scale construction projects. They operate in the Midwest, including cities like Chicago, IL; St. Louis, MO; and Minneapolis, MN. The company offers good training and career advancement opportunities.


  5. Tradesmen International
    Average Salary: $77,538
    Tradesmen International offers Crane Operator jobs in various construction projects. They work in regions like California, Texas, and Florida. The company values skilled professionals and offers comprehensive benefits.


  6. Boeing
    Average Salary: $77,328
    Boeing provides Crane Operator roles for their aerospace projects. They operate in areas like Seattle, WA; Charleston, SC; and Huntsville, AL. The company offers a robust training program and growth potential.


  7. PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
    Average Salary: $76,444
    PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC offers Crane Operator jobs in construction and infrastructure projects. They work in regions like New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Atlanta, GA. The company focuses on safety and professional development.


  8. TIC - The Industrial Company
    Average Salary: $75,996
    TIC - The Industrial Company provides Crane Operator positions for various industrial projects. They operate in major cities like Houston, TX; Dallas, TX; and Chicago, IL. The company emphasizes safety and training.


  9. MasTec Industrial
    Average Salary: $75,556
    MasTec Industrial offers Crane Operator jobs in utility and infrastructure projects. They work in regions like Florida, California, and the Southeast. The company values experienced operators and offers good benefits.


  10. MasTec Inc
    Average Salary: $74,445
    MasTec Inc provides Crane Operator roles in construction and infrastructure projects. They operate in areas like California, Texas, and the Mid-Atlantic states. The company focuses on safety and provides training opportunities.

How to earn more as a Crane Operator?

A Crane Operator can find many ways to boost earnings. Increasing skills and experience is one of the best methods. Specializing in operating different types of cranes will open more job opportunities. Gaining certifications can lead to higher pay rates. Building a solid reputation can attract better-paying contracts. Networking with peers and employers can lead to more job offers.

Here are five factors to help earn more as a Crane Operator:

  1. Get licensed and certified in crane operation.
  2. Specialize in operating specific types of cranes.
  3. Gain experience in different work environments.
  4. Build a good reputation for safety and reliability.
  5. Network with industry professionals to find better jobs.

Currently 811 Crane Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Crane Operator in the US?

Learn what a Crane Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Crane Operator today.
Position
Overview
Crane Operator
811 Job Openings