Crane and Tower Operators
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$68,080/yr
Typical range
$52,600 – $83,200
Education
High school diploma
Time to entry
No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning
What a Crane and Tower Operators does
Operate heavy lifting equipment like cranes and hoists to move materials at construction sites, ports, and factories. You'll follow safety protocols, communicate with ground crews, and maneuver loads with precision.
Education & path
The typical entry point is a high school diploma. No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning.
Estimated cost of that path: No degree cost. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.
Related careers
- Recycling and Reclamation Workers — $40,240/yr
- Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand — $40,240/yr
- Stockers and Order Fillers — $37,330/yr
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers — $58,640/yr
- Light Truck Drivers — $44,860/yr
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