Crane and Tower Operators
O*NET 53-7021.00 · SOC 53-7021
Crane and Tower Operator is a solid career choice. Median pay is $68k a year with +3.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 3,500 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate crane controls to lift and move heavy loads
- →Read hand signals or radio instructions from ground workers
- →Position loads precisely over target locations using crane controls
- →Inspect crane cables, hooks, and rigging before each shift
- →Log daily crane operations and report any mechanical issues
Education & How to Get In
Most Crane and Tower Operator positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Crane and Tower Operator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Crane and Tower Operator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Crane and Tower Operator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Crane and Tower Operators is projected to grow 3.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Crane and Tower Operator make?
The median Crane and Tower Operator earns $68k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Crane and Tower Operator jobs?
Our model puts Crane and Tower Operator at 44 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Crane and Tower Operator a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 3,500 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Crane and Tower Operator?
Most Crane and Tower Operator roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Crane and Tower Operator?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Crane and Tower Operator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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