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Crane Operators Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator

Boulder, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Denver, CO

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

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Crane Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Currently, Krän is seeking to employ {#} crane operators. Description Summary The Crane Operator is responsible for operating a mobile and RT cranes. As a crane operator for Krän, you will be an ...

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Crane Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Currently, Krän is seeking to employ {#} crane operators. Description Summary The Crane Operator is responsible for operating a mobile and RT cranes. As a crane operator for Krän, you will be an ...

Crane Operator

Denver, CO

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Boulder, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Boulder, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Boulder, CO

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator

Thornton, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator - Non-DOT

Denver, CO · On-site

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator - Non-DOT

Thornton, CO · On-site

$42.64 - $55.56/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

Crane Operator - Non-DOT

Denver, CO · On-site

$42.64 - $55.56/hr

Branch Manager RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be ...

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Showing results 1-20

Crane Operators information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$29

$42

How much do crane operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operators in Colorado is $29.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $34.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are crane operators?

Crane operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating cranes and other heavy lifting equipment to move, lift, and position materials at construction sites, shipping yards, factories, and other industrial settings. They must have a strong understanding of safety protocols, equipment mechanics, and hand or radio signals used for communication. Training and certification are usually required, as crane operation involves significant responsibility and risk management. Crane operators play a crucial role in ensuring that heavy loads are lifted and placed safely and efficiently according to project requirements.

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

Crane operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or crowded sites, dealing with changing weather conditions, and ensuring precise communication with ground crews. These can be addressed by maintaining strong situational awareness, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and using clear hand signals or radios to coordinate with team members. Regular equipment inspections and ongoing training also help operators manage risks and adapt to new technologies or site-specific requirements.

What's the top pay for a crane operator?

The top pay for crane operators can exceed $80,000 to $100,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and operating large or complex equipment. Wages vary by region, industry, and the complexity of the crane operation, with overtime and union membership potentially increasing earnings.

What is the difference between Crane Operators vs Tower Crane Operators?

AspectCrane OperatorsTower Crane Operators
CertificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane operator certification, tower crane-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperate various mobile and stationary cranes on construction sitesOperate tower cranes primarily on high-rise construction sites
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping yards, industrial facilitiesHigh-rise building construction, large-scale infrastructure projects

Crane Operators and Tower Crane Operators both require similar certifications and work in construction environments. However, Tower Crane Operators specialize in operating tower cranes used for tall building projects, whereas Crane Operators may work with a variety of crane types across different settings.

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 mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized crane operator certification. Familiarity with crane-specific controls, load charts, and safety systems, as well as certification from organizations like NCCCO, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for safely coordinating with team members and handling complex lifts. These skills and qualifications ensure safe operation, prevent accidents, and facilitate efficient workflow on construction or industrial sites.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends a maximum load of 3 tons at 3 meters radius, with a 3-minute setup time to ensure stability and safety during lifting operations. Crane operators must follow load charts and safety protocols, including proper setup and inspection, to prevent accidents. Adhering to these principles helps maintain safe crane operation in construction environments.

How much do they pay a crane operator?

The average salary for a crane operator is around $60,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Many crane operators earn higher wages with certifications and specialized skills, and they often work in construction, manufacturing, or shipping environments with potential for overtime pay.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by region, experience, and industry. They often receive benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, with median salaries in many areas ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Certification and experience can lead to higher pay and more advanced job opportunities.
What are popular job titles related to Crane Operators jobs in Colorado? For Crane Operators jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Operators jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Operators jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Crane Operators jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Crane Operators job openings:
Crane Operator

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


TNT Crane & Rigging rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 149 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

RMS

Position: Crane Operator

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Reports to: Branch Manager

RMS is looking to add experienced full-time crane operators to our growing Branch. The following are a list of requirements; You must meet all of the requirements below to be considered for this position.

RMS is offering our employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which include health benefits, paid vacation, per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success.

Salary: $44.78- $58.35 per hour DOE and certifications

Summary: Ensures safety first, along with safe lifting of the load, proper set-up of crane, while maintaining Customer focus. Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and environmental policies while performing the job task.

Responsibilities:

  • At the end of the shift reviews what the next day(s) job assignment are and have all necessary rigging and equipment ready before ending the shift.
  • Completes Field Ticket and turns in to local branch office. If other chargeable equipment was utilized on the job, makes sure to write it down on the Field Ticket.
  • Completes payroll book daily with the hours worked. Hours must be reported to the local branch office no later than 10:00 a. m. every Monday.
  • If not on a job assignment, informs the supervisor and is productive by inspecting, cleaning, and performing maintenance on the equipment.
  • Carries and answers phone/pagers in a prompt manner.
  • Assists in the training of safe operation of a crane.
  • Periodically reviews assigned crane and other model cranes service and operation manuals.
  • Cleans, inspects, and reorganizes equipment in shop and yard. Clean shop, washes rack and break room.
  • Be able to read, interpret, and calculate the load percentage by utilizing the load charts of the cranes owner and operation manual.
  • Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode, set-up crane on location in a safe and professional manner.
  • Must determine that the signal person understands and performs proper hand signals before lifting the load.
  • Understands and can perform proper rigging techniques to ensure safe lifting of the load.
  • Inspects crane, truck, and/or trailer and fills out vehicle inspection report before operating the vehicle. Turns in inspection report to the local branch office.
  • Performs other job duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Must have a current state issued Commercial Driver License (CDL).
  • Must have a current crane operating license (NCCCO).
  • 3 or more years of operating hydraulic cranes required.
  • Ability to operate crane by viewing hand signals.

Skills Required:

  • Good verbal and written communication skills to understand instructions, applicable safety regulations, and to maintain records.
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical problems.

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