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Union Crane Operator Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Lunda Construction Company, a Tutor Perini Company, is seeking Crane Operator (Union) to join our project sites in the Black River Falls, WI; Waukesha, WI; Hilbert, WI; and Rosemount, MN regions.

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Union Crane Operator information

See Racine, WI salary details

$13

$26

$37

How much do union crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for union crane operator in Racine, WI is $26.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $31.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can crane operators make 300k a year?

Union crane operators can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with overtime, high-demand projects, and extensive experience. However, such high salaries are typically achieved by those working in specialized environments, with advanced certifications, and in regions with higher wage scales. Most crane operators earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with top earners reaching higher figures through overtime and seniority.

What does a typical workday look like for a Union Crane Operator on a construction site?

A typical day for a Union Crane Operator involves arriving on site early to inspect and prepare their crane, reviewing lift plans, and coordinating with site supervisors, riggers, and ground crew. Throughout the day, operators handle the movement of heavy materials, equipment, or structural components, following strict safety protocols and maintaining constant communication with the team. Union Crane Operators often work in a team-based environment and must be prepared to adapt to shifting priorities or changing site conditions. Most shifts are full-time and may require overtime or weekend hours depending on project timelines and weather. This dynamic role offers hands-on experience, continual learning, and opportunities for advancement within the construction or heavy equipment operation fields.

What's the highest paid crane operator?

The highest paid crane operators typically earn over $80,000 annually, with some experienced professionals in specialized environments or high-demand regions earning over $100,000. Factors influencing pay include certification, experience, type of crane operated, and work location, often involving overtime or hazardous conditions. Advanced skills and certifications can lead to higher salaries in this field.

What is a Union Crane Operator job?

A Union Crane Operator is a skilled professional responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, and position materials on construction sites, in manufacturing facilities, or at other industrial locations. They are members of a labor union, which provides job security, benefits, and negotiated wages. Operators must undergo specialized training, obtain certifications, and adhere to safety regulations to ensure efficient and secure operations. Union membership often grants access to apprenticeships and ongoing education to advance skills and career opportunities.

Do crane operators have a union?

Many crane operators are members of unions, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), which negotiates wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union membership can provide job security, training opportunities, and collective bargaining power for crane operators. However, union presence varies by region and employer.

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 maximum height of 3 meters, to ensure stability and prevent overloading. Crane operators must follow load charts and safety protocols, including proper signaling and inspection, to operate safely on construction sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Union Crane Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Crane Operator, you need excellent spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, and a thorough understanding of safety regulations, typically backed by completion of an apprenticeship and possession of NCCCO or similar crane operator certifications. Operators must be skilled in using various types of cranes, understanding load charts, and utilizing communication systems like radios or hand signals. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiently handling complex lifts, and ensuring smooth coordination on busy job sites.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Racine, WI? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Racine, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Crane Operator jobs in Racine, WI? For Union Crane Operator jobs in Racine, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Union Crane Operator jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Union Crane Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Crane Operator job openings in Racine, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,714 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Crane Operator (Union)

Tutorperini

Milwaukee, WI

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

This is a Union position, so the expected pay range is based on Union scale for the applicable Local.

Lunda Construction Company, a Tutor Perini Company, is seeking Crane Operator (Union) to join our project sites in the Black River Falls, WI; Waukesha, WI; Hilbert, WI; and Rosemount, MN regions.

*** This is a Union Position ***

About Lunda Construction:

Excellence in Construction since 1938

Lunda Construction Co. is a major heavy/highway, civil and industrial general contractor with an uncompromising pledge to achieve the highest standards of Engineering and Excellence, with the Safety of the workforce and traveling public being the highest priority.

Building isn't just a job. At Lunda Construction Co., it is our passion. With every project we undertake, we set the bar high and provide the best people in the industry, with a true love of what we do to make our Customers' vision a reality. From inception to completion, we use the latest techniques and technologies to make sure that the project stays on point and on budget. Even after a project's completion, our post-construction teams work to ensure that our Customers are satisfied.

At Lunda Construction Co., we believe our work stands as a testament to the quality and excellence that we stand for as a company. Notable projects include the Southwest METRO Green Line Extension, I-74 Mississippi River Bridge, Saint Croix Crossing, Marquette Interchange, I-494 Airport to Highway 169 Design-Build, and the Southwest LRT Blue Line Extension.

Extraordinary Projects need Exceptional Talent

DESCRIPTION:

As a Crane Operator (Union) at Lunda Construction, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Possess the knowledge and ability to operate different types of mobile cranes such as rough terrain telescopic boom and lattice boom crawler. (Experience with lattice boom friction cranes a plus.)

  • Have basic knowledge of rigging procedures and removal-from-service criteria.

  • Understand crane functions and limitations, including assembly and disassembly procedures.

  • Have basic knowledge of crane attachments such as, but not limited to, hooks, slings, pile-driving equipment, clamshell buckets, concrete buckets, etc. (Impact pile hammer experience a plus.)

  • Perform daily maintenance of crane. (Greasing, general housekeeping.)

  • Perform daily "shift inspection" and monthly inspection of machine

  • Understand computer software and LMI for proper set up and safety.

  • Ability to understand radio, verbal, and hand signals.

  • Ability to operate other types of heavy equipment a plus (e.g. excavator, front end loader, telehandler, skid steer, etc.)

  • Perform other duties as required.

*Please note: Training is available through the Unions if all requirements are not met

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Current certification from an accredited crane operator testing organization is a plus

  • Must have a valid driver's license

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

  • Duties will be performed outdoors at construction sites.

  • Duties will include physical activities that require considerable use of the arms and legs, and moving the whole body, such as standing, climbing, balancing, walking, stooping, bending, and handling and lifting of materials, equipment, tools and machinery weighing up to 50 pounds.

Lunda Construction builds extraordinary projects, and we need exceptional talent. Join us and together we will build the future.

Equal Opportunity Employer