Position
Salary

How much does a Crane Operator make?

The average salary for a Crane Operator is $52,727 per year in the US.

Crane operators play a vital role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a crane operator is around $52,727. This means most crane operators make between $33,000 and $91,000 each year.

The salary can vary based on several factors. Experience and skill level often play a big part. Operators with more years on the job and special certifications can earn more. Location also matters. Some areas have higher demand for crane operators, leading to better pay. Job setting, like working in urban areas or on large projects, can also affect earnings.

View Crane Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Crane Operator?

Crane operators can find some of the best pay in Manchester, New Hampshire, where the average salary is around $74,516. Boston, Massachusetts, offers a similar salary, making it a top choice for those in the field. Fort Collins, Colorado, also provides a competitive salary, with crane operators earning about $74,225 on average. These cities provide a strong financial incentive for crane operators to consider relocating. Washington, D.C., and Colorado Springs, Colorado, follow closely behind, offering salaries of approximately $71,000 and $69,500, respectively. Baltimore, Maryland, and San Diego, California, also offer attractive salaries for crane operators.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Crane Operator jobs, highlighting Manchester, NH with the highest at $74,516 and Billings, MT with the lowest at $67,536.
  1. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $74,516
    In Manchester, NH, crane operators find steady work in construction and manufacturing. Companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems Armament Systems offer many opportunities. The city's growing infrastructure projects provide a stable job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Manchester, NH


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $74,509
    Boston, MA, offers a dynamic environment for crane operators. With major projects in the Seaport District and ongoing urban development, operators work with companies like The Boston Harbor Association. The city's rich history and vibrant economy create a thriving job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $74,225
    Fort Collins, CO, provides a mix of residential and commercial projects for crane operators. Companies like Pella Windows and Doors and Colorado State University offer diverse opportunities. The city's growing population and strong economy ensure a steady demand for skilled operators.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $71,006
    In Washington, DC, crane operators are in high demand for government and commercial projects. Companies like AECOM and Clark Construction Group offer many opportunities. The city's political and economic activities create a stable job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $69,548
    Colorado Springs, CO, offers a variety of projects for crane operators, from military installations to commercial developments. Companies like United States Air Force Academy and Broadmoor Place provide many opportunities. The city's strong economy and growing population ensure steady work.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  6. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $69,200
    Baltimore, MD, provides a mix of industrial and residential projects for crane operators. Companies like Under Armour and Port of Baltimore offer many opportunities. The city's revitalization efforts and strong economy create a stable job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $68,506
    In San Diego, CA, crane operators find work in construction, maritime, and defense sectors. Companies like General Dynamics NASSCO and Port of San Diego offer many opportunities. The city's strong economy and diverse industries ensure a steady demand for skilled operators.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Baton Rouge, LA
    Average Salary: $68,376
    Baton Rouge, LA, offers a mix of oil and gas, construction, and commercial projects for crane operators. Companies like ExxonMobil and Shaw Group offer many opportunities. The city's strong economy and diverse industries create a stable job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA


  9. Fort Myers, FL
    Average Salary: $67,941
    Fort Myers, FL, provides a variety of projects for crane operators, from residential developments to commercial construction. Companies like Lee County Port Authority and Southwest Florida International Airport offer many opportunities. The city's growing population and strong economy ensure steady work.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Fort Myers, FL


  10. Billings, MT
    Average Salary: $67,536
    In Billings, MT, crane operators find work in construction, oil and gas, and commercial projects. Companies like Yellowstone County and Rimrock Auto Group offer many opportunities. The city's strong economy and diverse industries create a stable job market.
    Find Crane Operator jobs in Billings, MT

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

Job seekers looking for crane operator positions can find some of the best pay at Savard Labor & Marine Staffing, with an average salary of $121,014. RMS Cranes offers a competitive average salary of $90,978. Paramount Placement also provides a strong average salary of $88,667. These companies stand out for their attractive compensation packages. Securing a position with one of these firms can lead to a rewarding career with excellent financial benefits.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Crane Operator jobs, highlighting Savard Labor & Marine Staffing with the highest at $121,014 and Liberty Lift Solutions with the lowest at $74,000.
  1. Savard Labor & Marine Staffing
    Average Salary: $121,014
    Savard Labor & Marine Staffing offers Crane Operator jobs with competitive pay. They work in various locations, including Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. Their focus on safety and training makes them a top choice for many operators.


  2. RMS Cranes
    Average Salary: $90,978
    RMS Cranes provides Crane Operator positions with a strong emphasis on career growth. They operate in key areas like New York, New Jersey, and the Mid-Atlantic states. RMS Cranes values experience and dedication, offering a supportive work environment.


  3. Paramount Placement
    Average Salary: $88,667
    Paramount Placement offers Crane Operator jobs with a focus on quality and reliability. They serve regions such as New York, New Jersey, and the surrounding areas. Their commitment to employee satisfaction makes them a preferred employer.


  4. Kokosing Construction
    Average Salary: $82,547
    Kokosing Construction provides Crane Operator jobs with a strong reputation for safety and professionalism. They operate in Ohio and surrounding states. Kokosing Construction values skilled operators and offers a stable work environment.


  5. Curtin Maritime
    Average Salary: $79,405
    Curtin Maritime offers Crane Operator jobs with a focus on maritime operations. They work in key ports along the East Coast, including New York and New Jersey. Curtin Maritime values experienced operators and offers a dynamic work environment.


  6. PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
    Average Salary: $75,538
    PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC provides Crane Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and safety. They operate in various locations, including California and the Pacific Northwest. Their commitment to employee development makes them a great choice.


  7. Sterling Crane
    Average Salary: $75,385
    Sterling Crane offers Crane Operator jobs with a focus on quality and reliability. They serve regions such as New York, New Jersey, and the Mid-Atlantic states. Sterling Crane values skilled operators and offers a supportive work environment.


  8. MasTec Industrial
    Average Salary: $75,375
    MasTec Industrial provides Crane Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and innovation. They operate in various locations, including Florida, Texas, and the Southeast. MasTec Industrial values experienced operators and offers a dynamic work environment.


  9. Tradesmen International
    Average Salary: $74,500
    Tradesmen International offers Crane Operator jobs with a focus on quality and reliability. They serve regions such as California, Texas, and the Southwest. Tradesmen International values skilled operators and offers a supportive work environment.


  10. Liberty Lift Solutions
    Average Salary: $74,000
    Liberty Lift Solutions provides Crane Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and professionalism. They operate in key areas like New York, New Jersey, and the Mid-Atlantic states. Liberty Lift Solutions values experienced operators and offers a stable work environment.

How to earn more as a Crane Operator?

Becoming a Crane Operator can lead to a rewarding career with good earning potential. To maximize earnings, consider these key factors. Gaining experience and expertise in operating different types of cranes can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Specializing in complex crane operations or obtaining certifications for advanced crane types can lead to better-paying positions.

Networking with industry professionals and staying informed about job trends can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and connecting with peers can provide insights into better job prospects. Additionally, seeking out employers who offer competitive salaries and benefits can make a significant difference in earnings. Researching companies known for fair compensation can lead to more lucrative job offers. Finally, continuously improving skills and staying updated with the latest technology and safety practices can enhance job performance and lead to higher pay.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Crane Operator:

  1. Gain experience and expertise in crane operations.
  2. Specialize in complex crane operations or obtain certifications.
  3. Network with industry professionals and stay informed about job trends.
  4. Seek out employers who offer competitive salaries and benefits.
  5. Continuously improve skills and stay updated with the latest technology and safety practices.

Currently 679 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
679 Job Openings