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Aerial Lift Operator information

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$12

$18

$22

How much do aerial lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial lift operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial lift operator?

An Aerial Lift Operator is a trained professional who is responsible for safely operating aerial lifts, such as boom lifts, scissor lifts, or cherry pickers. These workers use specialized equipment to elevate themselves or others to perform tasks at heights, often in construction, maintenance, or warehouse settings. Operators must understand safety protocols, equipment controls, and site-specific hazards to prevent accidents. Certification and ongoing training are often required to ensure they operate lifts safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial lift operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Lift Operator, you need a solid understanding of equipment operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with specialized certification or training. Familiarity with various aerial lift models, safety harnesses, and compliance with OSHA standards is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient work at heights and to prevent workplace accidents.

What are some common safety challenges faced by aerial lift operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Aerial Lift Operators often encounter safety challenges such as unstable ground conditions, overhead obstacles, and changing weather. To address these, operators should always conduct thorough pre-operation inspections, assess the terrain before use, and ensure all safety harnesses and equipment are properly utilized. Regular communication with ground crew and adherence to established safety protocols significantly reduce risk and help create a safer work environment.

What is the difference between Aerial Lift Operator vs Boom Lift Operator?

AspectAerial Lift OperatorBoom Lift Operator
CertificationsOSHA certification, equipment-specific trainingOSHA certification, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, maintenance, warehousingConstruction sites, maintenance, industrial settings
Industry UsageConstruction, utilities, warehousingConstruction, industrial, maintenance

Both Aerial Lift Operators and Boom Lift Operators require similar certifications and work in comparable environments. The main difference lies in the equipment they operate; aerial lifts include various types like scissor lifts, while boom lifts are a specific type of aerial lift with extendable arms. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role for their skills and project needs.

Do you need to be certified to operate an aerial lift operator?

Yes, aerial lift operators are typically required to be certified, which involves completing safety training and understanding proper operation procedures. Certification requirements can vary by state and industry, but OSHA standards generally mandate training for safe use of aerial lifts. Employers often require proof of certification before allowing employees to operate such equipment.

How long does it take to get an aerial lift operator certification?

Becoming an aerial lift operator typically requires completing a training program that can last from a few hours to a few days, depending on the provider and the complexity of the equipment. After training, operators usually need to pass a skills assessment or written test to obtain certification, which is often valid for a specified period before renewal is required.

How many hours do aerial lift operators work?

Aerial lift operators typically work full-time hours, often around 40 hours per week, with some overtime depending on project deadlines and safety regulations. Work schedules can include early mornings, evenings, or weekends, especially in construction or maintenance environments, and may require adherence to safety standards and certification requirements.
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Aerial Lift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Lift Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,182 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Aerial Lift Trimmer: Woodstock, GA

Woodstock, GA • On-site

Kendall Vegetation Services
Environmental Consulting Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Kendall Vegetation Servicesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools. Previous experience operating an aerial lift trimmer with a tree care company is required. Driver's license is required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing truck and materials needed for each day at General Foreperson's direction
  • Perform professional tree maintenance activities as directed by General Foreperson
  • Clear and trim trees and brush away from utility lines; remove branches and tree material
  • Clean up and dispose of all debris
  • Maintain and keep track of all tools and equipment used in daily operations
  • Constantly observe and practice climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve your own professional skills
  • Be ready and willing to assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities
  • Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIESAerial Lift Trimmers have no direct reports.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTSPrior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous aerial lift experience preferred.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTSHigh School diploma or education equivalent preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
  • Must be able to identify tree species
  • Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
  • Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
  • Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
  • Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

This position requires employees to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.
Work authorization requirements:Must meet I-9 requirements. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Affirmative Action/EEO statement:Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement:
XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.
Benefits Offered:
This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.
AI Usage Disclaimer:
As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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