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Tower Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SMITH ROWE, LLC

Crane Operator

Catawba, NC · On-site

Crane Operator A Crane Operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, position, and ... Operate various types of cranes (mobile, tower, or rough terrain) to lift and move heavy materials.

Fred Smith Company

Crane Operator

Catawba, NC · On-site

Crane Operator A Crane Operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, position, and ... Operate various types of cranes (mobile, tower, or rough terrain) to lift and move heavy materials.

H + M Industrial Services

Crane Operator

Odessa, TX

... tower cranes, or overhead cranes -Minimum 5 years experience operating Lg/Sm Hyd. - Strong knowledge of crane operation and safety procedures - Excellent hand-eye coordination and depth perception ...

H + M Industrial Services

Crane Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

Proven experience operating different types of cranes, such as mobile cranes, tower cranes, or overhead cranes * Minimum 5 years experience operating Lg/Sm Hyd. * Strong knowledge of crane operation ...

Essel

Crane Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

Job Title: Crane Operator Job Summary: Essel is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Crane ... Experience with both rough terrain and tower cranes is an advantage. * Ability to read and ...

H + M Industrial Services

Crane Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

... tower cranes, or overhead cranes -Minimum 5 years experience operating Lg/Sm Hyd. - Strong knowledge of crane operation and safety procedures - Excellent hand-eye coordination and depth perception ...

Essel

Crane Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Job Title: Crane Operator Job Summary: Essel is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Crane ... Experience with both rough terrain and tower cranes is an advantage. * Ability to read and ...

Essel

Crane Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Job Title: Crane Operator Job Summary: Essel is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Crane ... Experience with both rough terrain and tower cranes is an advantage. * Ability to read and ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator - Non-DOT

Denver, CO

$44.78 - $58.35/hr

Tower Cranes (Denver, 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 ...

Essel

Crane Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Job Title: Crane Operator Job Summary: Essel is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Crane ... Experience with both rough terrain and tower cranes is an advantage. * Ability to read and ...

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Black & Veatch

3676 - Crane Operator - Heavy

Clinton, MS · On-site

Operate mechanical boom and cable or tower and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines ... Operators must be thoroughly familiar with crane control functions Operate crane to lift and move ...

RMS Cranes

Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

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, Conventional, Crawler, or Tower ...

Black & Veatch

3676 - Crane Operator - Heavy

Clinton, MS · On-site

Operate mechanical boom and cable or tower and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines ... Operators must be thoroughly familiar with crane control functions Operate crane to lift and move ...

Blythe Construction

Crane Operator

Catawba, NC · On-site

A Crane Operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, position, and reposition loads ... cranes (mobile, tower, or rough terrain) to lift and move heavy materials. • Conduct pre ...

Landmark Structures

Field Crane Operator

Southlake, TX · On-site

This position is responsible for working on water tower construction projects by transferring from ... NCCCO Crane Operator Certification Compensation: * We offer a competitive compensation, medical ...

RMS Cranes

Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

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, Conventional, Crawler, or Tower ...

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All JobsTower Crane Operator Jobs

Tower Crane Operator information

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$21

$35

$47

How much do tower crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for tower crane operator in the United States is $35.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $39.18 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.

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Tower Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tower Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,812 per year, or $35 per hour.
Certified Crane Operator

Certified Crane Operator

Nextgen Crane Service

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Crane Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating various types of cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials safely and efficiently on construction and industrial sites.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate mobile cranes to lift, move, position, and place materials and equipment.
  • Inspect cranes and rigging equipment daily before operation to ensure safety and proper functioning.
  • Follow load charts, signals, and site plans to ensure safe and accurate lifts.
  • Communicate effectively with signalers, riggers, and ground crews.
  • Perform routine maintenance and report any mechanical issues or safety hazards.
  • Adhere to all OSHA, site, and company safety regulations.
  • Maintain accurate logs of crane operations, loads, and inspections.
  • Assist with site setup, teardown, and equipment mobilization as needed.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
  • Valid NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating cranes (mobile, tower, or overhead).
  • Knowledge of crane load capacities, rigging, and signaling procedures.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and lift plans.
  • Physical ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
  • CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) preferred for mobile crane operators.

Must have active CDL.

Must be certified in Arizona to operate cranes.

Must be able to sit/stand and/or drive for long periods of time.

Must be able to provide or obtain medical examiner certification prior to employment.

Need to be able to commute around Tucson and surrounding areas with ease.

Prior experience operation commercial vehicles and/or long trailer beds is preferred.