How much does a Crane Operator make?
A Crane Operator plays a key role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. They use large machines to move heavy materials. This job requires skill and attention to safety. The average yearly salary for a Crane Operator is around $52,786. This means most operators earn between this amount and more, depending on experience and location.
Crane Operators can earn different amounts based on where they work and how much they have learned. The lowest 10% earn about $33,000 a year. The top 10% can earn up to $95,000 or more. Many factors affect salary, such as the type of industry, the size of the company, and the region. For example, operators in urban areas often earn more than those in rural areas. Those with more experience and special certifications can also earn higher wages.
What are the highest paying cities for a Crane Operator?

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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $86,812
In Madison, WI, crane operators find steady work in construction and manufacturing. Companies like MillerCoors and Epic Systems often need skilled operators. The city's growing economy offers a range of opportunities for those in the field.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $74,571
Manchester, NH, provides a dynamic environment for crane operators. With major companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems, there is a strong demand for skilled workers. The city's industrial sector ensures a steady flow of job opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $73,318
Boston, MA, offers a vibrant job market for crane operators. The city's construction boom and major projects keep demand high. Companies like Liberty Mutual and State Street Corporation often need experienced operators.
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Lafayette, LA
Average Salary: $73,275
Lafayette, LA, is a key location for crane operators in the energy sector. With companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil, there are many opportunities. The city's focus on oil and gas provides a stable job market.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $72,704
Fort Collins, CO, offers a mix of construction and outdoor projects for crane operators. The city's growing population and development projects create steady work. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Corporation often need skilled operators.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $71,646
In Washington, DC, crane operators find work in both government and private sectors. The city's infrastructure projects and construction sites offer many opportunities. Major companies like General Dynamics and Northrop Grumman often need skilled workers.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $70,327
Baton Rouge, LA, provides a strong job market for crane operators. The city's focus on energy and manufacturing creates many opportunities. Companies like Dow Chemical and ExxonMobil often need experienced operators.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $70,220
Baltimore, MD, offers a diverse job market for crane operators. The city's port and industrial sectors provide steady work. Companies like Under Armour and Legg Mason often need skilled workers.
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Fort Myers, FL
Average Salary: $68,647
Fort Myers, FL, offers a growing job market for crane operators. The city's construction boom and tourism industry create many opportunities. Companies like Publix and Lee County Port Authority often need skilled workers.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $68,489
San Diego, CA, offers a vibrant job market for crane operators. The city's military and aerospace sectors provide many opportunities. Companies like General Dynamics and Qualcomm often need skilled workers.
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What are the best companies a Crane Operator can work for?

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Savard Labor & Marine Staffing
Average Salary: $125,103
Savard Labor & Marine Staffing offers Crane Operator jobs with competitive pay. They operate in various locations, including Louisiana and Texas. Their roles often involve operating cranes in construction and marine settings.
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RMS Cranes
Average Salary: $92,217
RMS Cranes provides Crane Operator jobs with a strong salary. They work in areas like New York and California. Employees handle crane operations for construction projects and industrial sites.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $88,438
Paramount Placement offers Crane Operator jobs with a good salary. They operate in states such as Florida and Illinois. Their roles include crane operations for construction and infrastructure projects.
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Kokosing Construction
Average Salary: $83,000
Kokosing Construction provides Crane Operator jobs with a solid salary. They work in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Employees are responsible for crane operations in construction and industrial environments.
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McMillen, Inc.
Average Salary: $77,409
McMillen, Inc. offers Crane Operator jobs with a decent salary. They operate in Colorado and Arizona. Their roles involve crane operations for construction and infrastructure projects.
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PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
Average Salary: $76,000
PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC. provides Crane Operator jobs with a good salary. They work in Washington and Oregon. Employees handle crane operations in construction and industrial settings.
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Sterling Crane
Average Salary: $75,552
Sterling Crane offers Crane Operator jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Michigan and Indiana. Their roles include crane operations for construction and industrial projects.
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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $75,111
MasTec Industrial provides Crane Operator jobs with a good salary. They work in various locations across the U.S. Employees handle crane operations for construction and infrastructure projects.
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Rossco Crane and Rigging
Average Salary: $74,782
Rossco Crane and Rigging offers Crane Operator jobs with a solid salary. They operate in New Jersey and New York. Their roles involve crane operations for construction and industrial projects.
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Tradesmen International
Average Salary: $74,500
Tradesmen International provides Crane Operator jobs with a good salary. They work in multiple states across the U.S. Employees handle crane operations in construction and industrial settings.
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 specific crane types can also increase your value in the job market.
Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to job referrals and insider knowledge about high-paying positions. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections. Another way to earn more is by seeking out employers who offer competitive salaries and benefits. Researching companies known for fair compensation practices can lead to better-paying job offers. Additionally, taking on roles with more responsibility, such as a supervisory position, can lead to higher earnings. Continuous learning and staying updated on the latest industry trends and technologies can also make a Crane Operator more attractive to employers willing to pay a premium for skilled workers.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Crane Operator:
- Gain experience and expertise in crane operations.
- Specialize in complex crane operations or obtain certifications.
- Network with other professionals in the industry.
- Seek out employers offering competitive salaries and benefits.
- Take on roles with more responsibility, such as supervisory positions.



