CAREER

Crane and Tower Operators

Overview

Salary Median (2020)

$59,710

Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)

+1.7% (little or no change)

Most Common Level of Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Career

What Crane and Tower Operators Do

Operate mechanical boom and cable or tower and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines, or products in many directions.

Other Job Titles Crane and Tower Operators May Have

Crane Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator, Machine Operator, Mobile Crane Operator, Overhead Crane Operator, Port Crane Operator, Scrap Crane Operator, Winchman, Woodyard Crane Operator

Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

  • Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload.
  • Move levers, depress foot pedals, or turn dials to operate cranes, cherry pickers, electromagnets, or other moving equipment for lifting, moving, or placing loads.
  • Inspect and adjust crane mechanisms or lifting accessories to prevent malfunctions or damage.
  • Inspect cables or grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables, as needed.
  • Direct helpers engaged in placing blocking or outrigging under cranes.

This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.