As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Crane/Tower Operator in the United States is $54,014 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.
However, a Crane/Tower Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Crane/Tower Operator Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $65,853 | $5,488 | $1,266 | $32 |
| Average | $54,014 | $4,501 | $1,039 | $26 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,437 | $3,620 | $835 | $21 |
Nine Energy Service - CHARLEROI, PA
Clean Harbors - REIDSVILLE, NC
Clean Harbors - DES MOINES, IA
Clean Harbors - KIMBALL, NE
A Crane/Tower Operator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Crane/Tower Operators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
Understanding how a Crane/Tower Operator's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $65,853 | $5,488 | $1,266 | $32 |
| Average | $54,014 | $4,501 | $1,039 | $26 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,437 | $3,620 | $835 | $21 |
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A Crane/Tower Operator's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Crane/Tower Operator earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Crane/Tower Operator is $68,128.
The highest pay for Crane/Tower Operator is $76,631.
The lowest pay for Crane/Tower Operator is $33,807.
Operates electric tower crane equipment. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and at least 4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Is familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of complicated tasks. May lead and direct the work of others. May report directly to a supervisor or manager. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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