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Crane Operators Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

TAKKION Ops Management LLC

Rigger - FSL

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Collaborate with crane operators and other team members to ensure efficient and safe rigging operations. * Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

TAKKION

Rigger - FSL

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Collaborate with crane operators and other team members to ensure efficient and safe rigging operations. * Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Takkion Ops Management LLC

Rigger - FSL

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Collaborate with crane operators and other team members to ensure efficient and safe rigging operations. * Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Valmont Industries Inc.

Kettle Crew Lead

Salina, KS

Operate the crane in a safe and effective manner in the absence of the crane operator * Ensure accurate piece counts, part identification, and labor input * Monitor and record the quantity of work ...

Bettis Companies

General Laborer

Topeka, KS

$19.75/hr

Provide flagging and direction to Crane Operators * Must be able to walk on rebar * Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts * Perform general labor and other ...

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Crane Operators information

See Kansas salary details

$13

$25

$35

How much do crane operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operators in Kansas is $25.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $29.57 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 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's the highest paying crane operator job?

The highest paying crane operator jobs are typically in specialized industries such as oil and gas, power plant construction, or heavy industrial projects, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. These roles may also involve working in remote or hazardous environments, which can increase compensation significantly compared to standard construction crane operation.

How much do the best crane operators make?

The highest-paid crane operators can earn over $80,000 annually, especially those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and working in high-demand environments. Top earners often operate large, complex cranes and work overtime or in remote locations, which can increase their income.

How much do the highest paid crane operators make?

The highest paid crane operators can earn over $80,000 to $100,000 annually, especially those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and the ability to operate complex equipment. Factors such as location, industry, and overtime also influence their earnings.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by location, experience, and industry. They often receive benefits and may need certifications such as OSHA or NCCCO to qualify for higher-paying positions. Overall, crane operation is considered a well-paying skilled trade.
What are popular job titles related to Crane Operators jobs in Kansas? For Crane Operators jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Operators jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Operators jobs in Kansas are:
Crane Operators jobs near you
Operations Specialist I Monday-Thursday Night

Operations Specialist I Monday-Thursday Night

Norfolk Iron and Metal

Emporia, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Norfolk Iron & Metal rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 338 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Must pass drug test and background check
This posting is for Emporia, Kansas
Weekday Shift - Monday to Thursday 5pm to 3am
We're looking for a reliable and detail-oriented Warehouse Associate to join our team. This role involves supporting production by managing warehouse functions, ensuring inventory accuracy, and maintaining a safe and organized work environment. If this describes you and you're looking for a great career, look no further than Norfolk Iron & Metal!
Possible job requirements will be picking/banding/stacking steel bundles, reading a tape measure, assisting crane operators with bundle placement, operating various machinery such as overhead cranes and sideloading forklift, loading trailers.
Wage Progression:
  • 2nd job: +$1.00 (Operation Specialist 1 → Operation Specialist 2)
  • 3rd job: +$0.50
  • 4th job: +$1.25 (Operation Specialist 2 → Operation Specialist 3)
  • 5th job: +$0.50
  • 6th job: +$0.50
  • 7th job: +$1.50 (Operation Specialist 3 → Operation Specialist 4)
  • 8th job: +$0.50
  • 9th job: +$1.75 (Operation Specialist 4 → Operation Specialist 5) 90% of Operations Functions & Qualified Trainer

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.

What Norfolk Iron & Metal employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Norfolk Iron & Metal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Norfolk Iron & Metal is one of the nation’s largest steel providers. We process and distribute a wide range of products like structural steel, plate, sheet, tube, and more. Norfolk Iron & Metal has been a family-run business for more than a century. What started as a hide and scrap metal company in 1908 has evolved into one of the industry’s largest and most technologically advanced steel providers. In December 2018, Norfolk Iron & Metal acquired Metalwest and in December 2020, Cd’A Metals was added to the Norfolk Iron family. All these companies combined to make Norfolk Iron & Metal what it is today. With locations across the U.S., we’re able to stay true to what got us here: quality products and outstanding customer service.

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Norfolk, NE, US

Year founded

1908

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