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Crane Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Nextgen Crane Service

Certified Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Crane Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating various types of cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials ...

DV Management Company LLC

Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Description Crane Operator / CDL Driver Company: Star Roofing Position Type: Full-Time, Hourly Compensation: $70k to $80k annual, depending on experience. 40 hour work weeks. About Star Roofing Star ...

DV Management Company LLC

Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Description Crane Operator / CDL Driver Company: Star Roofing Position Type: Full-Time, Hourly Compensation: $70k to $80k annual, depending on experience. 40 hour work weeks. About Star Roofing Star ...

Turner Mining Group

Mobile Crane Operator

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

Turner Staffing Group is hiring Master Crane Operators and Apprentice Crane Operators in Bagdad, AZ. This is a Full-Time opportunity, offering competitive pay and benefits package. Please see details ...

Turner Staffing Group

Mobile Crane Operator

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

Turner Staffing Group is hiring Master Crane Operators and Apprentice Crane Operators in Bagdad, AZ. This is a Full-Time opportunity, offering competitive pay and benefits package. Please see details ...

Staff Experts LLC

Mobile Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Mobile Crane Operator certification or license and Completion of an Apprenticeship Program and four (4) years of experience as a Mechanical Mobile Crane Operator in a related industrial maintenance ...

Granite Construction, Inc.

Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Support crew when not operating crane with general duties to complete work. * May operate other heavy equipment including but not limited to forklifts, skid steers. * Ensure work area and equipment ...

TEEMA

Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Operating the Crane: * * Safely and efficiently operate the Grove 65-ton crane (Rough Terrain) according to manufacturer's specifications and industry standards. * Manipulate crane controls (levers ...

Granite Industrial

Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

One (1) to three (3) years previous crane operating experience, preferably on heavy civil construction projects including bridges, highway, transit, and rail. Current NCCCO Crane Operator ...

Staff Experts LLC

Mobile Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Staff Experts, LLC is currently seeking to fill direct hire/permanent Mobile Crane Operator positions. If you are interested, please email us your resume and call 602-666-6500 to schedule an ...

M HOLDING CO

Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Marco Crane & Rigging is looking for a full-time Crane Operator for our TUCSON branch. This position is responsible for the safe transportation, assembly, operation, and disassembly of hydraulic ...

Granite Construction

Crane Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Support crew when not operating crane with general duties to complete work. * May operate other heavy equipment including but not limited to forklifts, skid steers. * Ensure work area and equipment ...

M HOLDING CO

Crane Operator

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

Marco Crane & Rigging is looking for a full-time Crane Operator for our Flagstaff branch. This position is responsible for the safe transportation, assembly, operation, and disassembly of hydraulic ...

TEEMA

Crane Operator

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

Operating the Crane: * * Safely and efficiently operate the Grove 65-ton crane (Rough Terrain) according to manufacturer's specifications and industry standards. * Manipulate crane controls (levers ...

M HOLDING CO

Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Marco Crane & Rigging is looking for a full-time Crane Operator for our PHOENIX branch. This position is responsible for the safe transportation, assembly, operation, and disassembly of hydraulic ...

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All JobsCrane Operator JobsCrane Operator Jobs in Arizona

Crane Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$13

$26

$37

How much do crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operator in Arizona is $26.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crane operator do?

A Crane Operator is a professional heavy machine operator, specializing in cranes. Cranes are a unique kind of heavy equipment that uses pulley systems to move around, raise, and lower large items, such as shipping containers and steel beams. A Crane Operator is in charge of moving these things where they need to go, safely and efficiently. The also log their work, discuss and plan with their team, and perform basic maintenance on their machine.

What does a crane operator do?

A crane operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials on construction sites, in warehouses, or at industrial facilities. They must carefully control the crane’s movements using levers, pedals, or computerized controls while following strict safety protocols. Crane operators also inspect their equipment, ensure loads are balanced, and communicate with ground crews to complete tasks efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crane operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, load calculations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and crane operator certification (such as NCCCO). Familiarity with rigging equipment, load charts, and control systems is essential, along with the ability to interpret blueprints and site plans. Strong attention to detail, communication, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for managing complex lifts and working with ground crews. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise lifting operations on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges crane operators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, maintaining clear communication with ground crews, and ensuring safety in busy construction environments. To address these, operators rely on standardized hand signals, two-way radios, and regular safety briefings. Additionally, ongoing training and certification help operators stay updated on the latest safety protocols and equipment technology, ensuring efficient and secure operations.

What is the difference between Crane Operator vs Rigger?

AspectCrane OperatorRigger
CertificationsCrane operator license, OSHA certificationRigger certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentOperate cranes on construction sites, industrial settingsSet up and secure loads, assist crane operation
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping, manufacturingConstruction, shipping, industrial

Crane operators and riggers often work together on construction sites. While crane operators focus on operating the crane, riggers handle load setup and safety. Both roles require OSHA certifications and are essential for safe lifting operations in similar environments.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual salary for crane operators is around $60,000, with experienced operators earning over $80,000. Certifications and working in specialized environments can also influence pay rates.

How hard is it to get a crane operator license?

Obtaining a crane operator license typically requires completing specialized training, gaining hands-on experience, and passing written and practical exams. Licensing requirements vary by region but generally involve demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols, equipment operation, and industry standards.

How much do crane operators make?

Crane operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher wages, especially in construction, manufacturing, or shipping environments. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total earnings.
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Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crane Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,376 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Certified Crane Operator

Nextgen Crane Service

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Crane Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating various types of cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials safely and efficiently on construction and industrial sites.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate mobile cranes to lift, move, position, and place materials and equipment.
  • Inspect cranes and rigging equipment daily before operation to ensure safety and proper functioning.
  • Follow load charts, signals, and site plans to ensure safe and accurate lifts.
  • Communicate effectively with signalers, riggers, and ground crews.
  • Perform routine maintenance and report any mechanical issues or safety hazards.
  • Adhere to all OSHA, site, and company safety regulations.
  • Maintain accurate logs of crane operations, loads, and inspections.
  • Assist with site setup, teardown, and equipment mobilization as needed.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
  • Valid NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating cranes (mobile, tower, or overhead).
  • Knowledge of crane load capacities, rigging, and signaling procedures.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and lift plans.
  • Physical ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
  • CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) preferred for mobile crane operators.

Must have active CDL.

Must be certified in Arizona to operate cranes.

Must be able to sit/stand and/or drive for long periods of time.

Must be able to provide or obtain medical examiner certification prior to employment.

Need to be able to commute around Tucson and surrounding areas with ease.

Prior experience operation commercial vehicles and/or long trailer beds is preferred.