ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Tower Crane Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

ORANGE CORROSION SERVICES

Crane Operator

Orange, CA · On-site

Crane Operator The main office is in Orange. Work will be in the Long Beach, Carson, and Torrance areas. The Crane Operator is responsible for safely operating various types of cranes to lift, move ...

Reliance

Forklift Operator

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $29.50/hr

Communicates clearly with crane operators, truck drivers, and ground personnel using hand signals, radios, or verbal communication. * Confirms load stability and clear path prior to movement.

Reliance, Inc.

Forklift Operator 1

Riverside, CA

$23 - $29.50/hr

... crane operators, truck drivers, and ground personnel using hand signals, radios, or verbal communication. • Confirms load stability and clear path prior to movement. • Handles material in a ...

Reliance

Forklift Operator 1

Riverside, CA · On-site

$23 - $29.50/hr

... crane operators, truck drivers, and ground personnel using hand signals, radios, or verbal communication. • Confirms load stability and clear path prior to movement. • Handles material in a ...

reliance

Forklift Operator 1

Riverside, CA · On-site

$23 - $29.50/hr

... crane operators, truck drivers, and ground personnel using hand signals, radios, or verbal communication. • Confirms load stability and clear path prior to movement. • Handles material in a ...

S&P Fabrication Services

Fork Lift Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Overhead crane and rigging experience. * Loading oversized and over-dimensional shipments. Benefits ... If you have experience operating large-capacity forklifts and take pride in moving heavy materials ...

Triple-S Steel

Hyster Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... crane and personal protective equipment. * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds for up to 20 feet to ... The Production Equipment Operator will be regularly exposed to the typical weather of the local ...

Triple-S Steel

Hyster Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA

$19 - $24/hr

... crane and personal protective equipment. * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds for up to 20 feet to ... The Production Equipment Operator will be regularly exposed to the typical weather of the local ...

Triple-S Steel

Hyster Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... crane and personal protective equipment. * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds for up to 20 feet to ... The Production Equipment Operator will be regularly exposed to the typical weather of the local ...

Triple‑S Steel

Job Hyster Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Production Equipment Operator Triple-S Steel is a family-owned business that has grown into one of ... crane and personal protective equipment. * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds for up to 20 feet to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTower Crane Operator JobsTower Crane Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Tower Crane Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$22

$36

$49

How much do tower crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for tower crane operator in Riverside, CA is $36.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.35 and $40.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tower Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tower Crane Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of a crane operator training program and relevant certification (such as NCCCO). Familiarity with load charts, radio communication systems, and safety monitoring devices is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set outstanding operators apart. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise lifting operations on construction sites.

What are some common challenges Tower Crane Operators face on construction sites, and how are they typically addressed?

Tower Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining clear communication with ground crews, and ensuring safety while maneuvering heavy loads in tight spaces. These challenges are typically addressed through strict adherence to safety protocols, ongoing training, and use of radios or hand signals to coordinate movements. Operators also participate in regular safety briefings and collaborate closely with site supervisors and riggers to minimize risks and ensure smooth operations.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends maintaining a minimum of 3 feet of clearance from power lines, 3 inches of clearance from other objects, and ensuring a 3-second reaction time to hazards. For tower crane operators, adhering to these distances helps prevent electrical contact and accidents on construction sites.

How much do tower crane operators get paid?

Tower crane operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects they work on. They often require specialized certifications and operate heavy machinery in construction environments, with pay increasing for overtime and union membership.

Can crane operators make 300k a year?

Tower crane operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with top earners in high-cost areas or with extensive experience reaching around $150,000. Earning $300,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires additional certifications, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries or locations.

What is the difference between Tower Crane Operator vs Mobile Crane Operator?

AspectTower Crane OperatorMobile Crane Operator
CertificationsCrane Operator Certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane Operator Certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentFixed on construction sites, high-rise buildingsVarious locations, including construction sites, industrial sites, and events
Industry UsagePrimarily in construction, especially high-rise projectsConstruction, transportation, industrial, and event setups

Both Tower Crane Operators and Mobile Crane Operators require similar certifications and safety training. Tower Crane Operators work mainly on high-rise construction sites with fixed cranes, while Mobile Crane Operators operate versatile cranes that can move around different locations. The choice depends on the project type and work environment.

What does a tower crane operator do?

A tower crane operator is responsible for operating large cranes that are used to lift and move heavy materials on construction sites, especially for tall buildings and structures. They control the crane from a cab high above the ground, ensuring loads are moved safely and accurately according to site plans. Operators must communicate closely with ground crews and follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and damage. Their role is crucial in keeping construction projects on schedule and ensuring the safety of all workers on site.

Which crane operator makes the most money?

Experienced tower crane operators with specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience tend to earn the highest salaries in the industry. Factors such as working in high-demand regions, overtime, and working on large-scale projects can also increase earnings for crane operators. Generally, senior or highly skilled operators in major construction markets earn the most.

What Does a Tower Crane Operator Do?

A tower crane operator uses heavy equipment to lift and move construction materials and equipment around a job site. As a tower crane operator, you need specialized training in how to safely operate a crane. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers a 10-hour training program, and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) provides tower crane certification. While operating your tower crane, you must follow established load limits for your heavy equipment, watch signalers to control crane movement, and communicate with your crew via radio.

More about Tower Crane Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Tower Crane Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Tower Crane Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Tower Crane Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Tower Crane Operator job openings:
Tower Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tower Crane Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,962 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Crane Operator

ORANGE CORROSION SERVICES

Orange, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Crane Operator

The main office is in Orange. Work will be in the Long Beach, Carson, and Torrance areas.

Job Description:

The Crane Operator is responsible for safely operating various types of cranes to lift, move, position, and place materials and equipment at construction, industrial or maintenance sites. The operator ensures all lifting activities comply with safety regulations, load limits, and operational procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate cranes, to lift and move heavy loads safely and efficiently.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance to ensure crane functionality and compliance.
  • Communicate with riggers, signalers, and ground crew to coordinate lifts.
  • Adhere to OSHA, and site specific safety standards and procedures.
  • Monitor crane operations to detect any malfunction or unsafe conditions.
  • Assist with setup, breakdown, and transportation of crane components (when applicable).

Qualifications:

  • Experience with cranes in construction or industrial setting.
  • Certifications: NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators), OSHA 10/30, Valid Drivers License

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to sit for extended periods while driving.
  • Good vision and hearing to operate a vehicle safely.

* Salary determined upon experience.

Apply