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Crane Owner Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southway Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Valdosta, GA · On-site

Crane Operator Location: Valdosta, Georgia Reports to: Branch Manager Southway Crane & Rigging is ... the load charts of the crane's owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Valdosta, GA · On-site

Crane Operator Location: Valdosta, Georgia Reports to: Branch Manager Southway Crane & Rigging is ... the load charts of the crane's owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Billings, MT · On-site

... crane owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode ... Must have a current crane operating license (NCCCO or NCCER). * 3 or more years of operating ...

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Heavy Lift Crane Operator Location: Albuquerque, NM Reports to: Branch Manager RMS is looking to ... the load charts of the crane's owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane ...

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Heavy Lift Crane Operator Location: Albuquerque, NM Reports to: Branch Manager RMS is looking to ... the load charts of the crane's owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane ...

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Heavy Lift Crane Operator Location: Albuquerque, NM Reports to: Branch Manager RMS is looking to ... the load charts of the crane's owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane ...

Mohler Crane

Crane Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

This position has opportunity for growth with a family-owned reputable Crane Company ... operators manual and company rules regarding cribbing/matting. cribbing blocks or mats as required ...

Norfolk Iron & Metal Co.

Crane Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$32/hr

Crane Operator | Up to $32/Hour Plus Incredible Benefits Looking for steady hours, great pay, and ... We're still family-owned and operated today, offering the stability of a large company while ...

Norfolk Iron and Metal

Crane Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$32/hr

Crane Operator | Up to $32/Hour Plus Incredible Benefits Looking for steady hours, great pay, and ... We're still family-owned and operated today, offering the stability of a large company while ...

Metalwest

Crane Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$32/hr

Crane Operator | Up to $32/Hour Plus Incredible Benefits Looking for steady hours, great pay, and ... We're still family-owned and operated today, offering the stability of a large company while ...

Norfolk Iron and Metal

Crane Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$32/hr

Crane Operator | Up to $32/Hour Plus Incredible Benefits Looking for steady hours, great pay, and ... We're still family-owned and operated today, offering the stability of a large company while ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Marion, TX · On-site

Crane Operator Location: San Antonio, TX Reports to: Branch Manager TNT is looking to add ... owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode, set-up ...

Southway Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Ringgold, GA · On-site

Crane Operator Location: Chattanooga/Ringgold Reports to: Branch Manager Southway Crane & Rigging ... charts of the cranes owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane's computer in ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Marion, TX · On-site

Crane Operator Location: San Antonio, TX Reports to: Branch Manager TNT is looking to add ... owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode, set-up ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Ringgold, GA · On-site

Crane Operator Location: Chattanooga/Ringgold Reports to: Branch Manager Southway Crane & Rigging ... charts of the cranes owner and operation manual. * Be able to program the crane's computer in ...

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Crane Owner Operator information

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$14

$28

$40

How much do crane owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane owner operator in the United States is $28.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crane owner operator?

Crane Owner Operators are professionals who own and operate their own cranes, often working as independent contractors or small business owners. They are responsible for transporting, setting up, and operating cranes at construction sites, ports, or other locations where heavy lifting is required. In addition to operating the machinery, they handle the maintenance, inspection, and sometimes the logistics for moving their equipment. Crane Owner Operators must hold the necessary certifications and licenses, and they often work closely with site managers and other contractors to ensure safe and efficient operations.

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

To thrive as a Crane Owner Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, load calculations, rigging, and a valid crane operator certification or license. Familiarity with crane-specific safety systems, load charts, and maintenance tools is essential, as well as compliance with OSHA regulations. Strong communication, situational awareness, and problem-solving skills help ensure efficient coordination and safety on job sites. These skills and qualifications are crucial for preventing accidents, maximizing productivity, and meeting industry safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by crane owner operators when working on construction sites?

Crane owner operators often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams to safely lift and move heavy materials, adapting to changing site conditions, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. Managing equipment maintenance and scheduling to minimize downtime is also crucial. Effective communication with site supervisors and other operators is essential to prevent accidents and ensure projects stay on track. Additionally, owner operators must balance the responsibilities of running their own business, such as handling contracts and maintaining client relationships.

What is the difference between Crane Owner Operator vs Crane Rigger?

AspectCrane Owner OperatorCrane Rigger
Credentials/CertificationsCrane operator license, CDL (if applicable)Rigger certification, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentOperate cranes on construction sites, industrial projectsSet up, secure, and guide loads, often on same sites
Employer/Industry UsageOwned by individual or company, used in construction, shippingTypically employed by contractors, used in construction, shipping

Crane Owner Operators primarily focus on operating cranes, often owning or leasing their equipment, while Crane Riggers specialize in load setup and safety. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial projects, often working together but with different responsibilities and certifications.

How much are crane owner operators paid?

Crane owner operators typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Many operators also earn additional income through overtime, bonuses, or by managing multiple projects. Certification and familiarity with specific crane types can influence earning potential.

Is 40 too old to become a crane owner operator?

Age is not a strict barrier for becoming a crane owner operator, as experience, physical fitness, and proper certification are more important. Many operators start or continue in the field into their 40s and beyond, provided they meet licensing requirements and maintain safety standards. Employers value skills, reliability, and experience over age alone.

What is the highest paid crane owner operator?

The highest paid crane owner operators typically earn over $100,000 annually, with experienced professionals working in specialized environments or on large-scale projects. Earnings depend on factors such as location, certification, equipment type, and workload, with some top earners exceeding $150,000 per year.

What cities are hiring for Crane Owner Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Crane Owner Operator job openings:

What states have the most Crane Owner Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crane Owner Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Crane Owner Operator jobs?

For Crane Owner Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Crane Owner Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Crane Operator

Valdosta, GA • On-site

Southway Crane & Rigging
Commercial Equipment Rental and Leasing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Southway Crane & Riggingexternal

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Southway Crane and Rigging
Position: Crane Operator
Location: Valdosta, Georgia
Reports to: Branch Manager
Southway Crane & Rigging 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.
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 crane's 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 A with no restrictions).
  • Must have a current crane operating license (NCCCO or NCCER Certification).
  • 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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