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Crane Operators Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

GARNEY A Crane Operator position is available at Garney Construction. To be considered for this position you must be NCCCO certified. The crane operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

Structures, Inc. is seeking a full-time, experienced crane operator for projects located within the Front Range. Desired Skills and Experience: * Must be able to safely operate and maintain a 20-75 ...

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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:
Hydro Crane Operator - Water / Wastewater Project

Hydro Crane Operator - Water / Wastewater Project

Hensel Phelps

Greeley, CO • On-site

$36 - $47/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Hensel Phelps rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Compensation Range (Colorado Only)

$36.00 - $47.00

Any Employment Offers are Contingent Upon Successful Completion of the Following:

  • Verification of Work Authorization and Employment Eligibility

  • Substance Abuse Screening

  • Physical Exam (if applicable)

  • Background Checks for Badging/Security Clearances (if applicable)

About Hensel Phelps:

Founded in 1937, Hensel Phelps specializes in building development, construction and facility services in markets ranging from aviation to government, commercial, transportation, critical facilities, healthcare and transportation. Ranked #1 in aviation and #6 overall general contractor in 2024 by BD+C, Hensel Phelps is one of the largest employee-owned general contractors in the country. Driven to deliver EXCELLENCE in all we do and supported by our core values of Ownership, Integrity, Builder, Diversity and Community, Hensel Phelps brings our clients' visions to life with a comprehensive approach that begins with innovative planning and extends throughout the life of the property.

Position Description:

Crane operators employed by Hensel Phelps are responsible for the operation of mechanical boom and cable or tower and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines, or products in many directions. This is a safety sensitive position.

Position Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

  • Valid Driver's License.

  • Follow safe work practices in accordance with the Hensel Phelps safety and health program.

  • A valid certification from the National Commission of Crane Operators (NCCCO) for the type of crane that will be operated.

  • Experienced in the type of crane to be operated.

  • Able to pass the crane operator evaluation that will be conducted at each project.

  • Experience with a wide variety of construction machinery.

  • Knowledge of maintenance of various construction equipment.

  • Crane operator certification or experience with similar equipment with the ability to become certified.

  • Must be able to take initiative.

  • Possess a keen attention to detail and be able to follow instructions.

  • Workers must provide their own safety footwear.

  • Must be able to communicate effectively and professionally.

  • Strong mathematical reasoning and quantitative skills.

  • Must be reliable and punctual.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experienced in construction layout, blueprint reading and shop drawing reading.

  • OSHA 10 Certification.

  • CPR & First Aid Certification.

Essential Duties:

  • Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload. This also includes moving levers, depressing foot pedals, and turning dials to operate cranes, cherry pickers, electromagnets, or other moving equipment for lifting, moving, and placing loads.

  • Inspect cranes, rigging, hardware and attachments.

  • Understand various types of signals used during crane picks.

  • Inspect cables and grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables as needed. Frequent inspections and adjustment of crane mechanisms and lifting accessories to prevent malfunctions and damage is expected.

  • Clean, lubricate, and maintain mechanisms such as cables, pulleys, and grappling devices, making repairs, as necessary.

  • Direct helpers engaged in placing blocking and outrigging under cranes.

  • Load and unload bundles from trucks, and move containers to storage bins, using moving equipment.

  • Weigh bundles, using floor scales, and record weights for company records.

  • Review daily work and delivery schedules to determine orders, sequences of deliveries, and special loading instructions.

  • Direct truck drivers backing vehicles into loading bays, and cover, uncover, and secure loads for delivery.

  • Inspect bundle packaging for conformance to regulations and customer requirements and remove and batch packaging tickets.

  • Promote a safe work environment and communicate jobsite hazards.

Physical Work Classification & Demands:

  • Heavy Work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

  • The individual in this position will periodically walk, kneel, sit, crouch, reach, stoop, read/see, speak, push, pull, lift, stand, and finger/type. The frequency of each action varies by workflow and field activity.

  • Walking - The person in this position needs to frequently move about the jobsite.

  • Sometimes operates a computer or tablet and other office machinery, such as a calculator and phone.

  • The person in this position frequently communicates with employees and external stakeholders regarding a variety of topics related to office and field administration.

  • Constantly reads written communications and views mail submissions. Will also need to read and understand blueprints, load charts, and take/verify field measurements.

  • Climbing - Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding and ramps at various heights.

  • Working from heights - the person must be comfortable and able to work from heights for extended amounts of time.

  • Balancing - Ability to maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling and to walk, stand or crouch.

  • Stooping - Bending the body downward and forward by the spine at the waist.

  • Reaching - Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction for various lengths of time.

  • Grasping - Needs to apply pressure to an object with fingers and palm regularly.

  • Visual acuity and ability to operate a vehicle as certified and appropriate.

  • Occasionally exposed to high and low temperatures.

  • Frequently exposed to noisy environment and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind.

  • Use of hands and wrists with various tools.

  • Prolonged use of jackhammer and pavement breaker.

  • Use of wheelbarrows and brooms.

  • Repetitive use of hands and wrists using power, rotational, and vibration tools including prolonged use of jackhammers and pavement breakers.

  • Tolerate legally permissible exposure to dusts and chemicals, such as cement dust, solvents, and curing compounds.

  • The person must be able to safely wear a respirator and is able to pass applicable medical and fit testing examinations.

  • Must be able to hear commands from supervisors and back-up safety alarms on equipment.

Benefits:

Hensel Phelps provides generous benefits for our full-time employees. This position is eligible for company-paid medical insurance, life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment, long-term disability, 401(K) retirement plan, and our employee assistance program (EAP). Hensel Phelps also believes in the importance of taking time to recharge. As a result, employees are eligible for paid time off beginning upon hire.

Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer:

Hensel Phelps is an equal opportunity employer. Hensel Phelps is committed to engaging in affirmative action to increase employment opportunities for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Hensel Phelps shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, domestic partner status, pregnancy, disability, citizenship, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) #LI-MH1

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.


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