SALARY GUIDE

Earn More Operating Heavy Lifts

From entry‑level rigs to senior crane specialists, see how experience and certifications boost your paycheck.

Salary Overview

Compare salaries across experience levels and countries

Entry Level
$45,000
0‑2 years experience
Mid‑Career
$70,000
5‑10 years experience
Senior
$95,000
15+ years experience
Top 10%
$120,000
High performers
Average Salary by Country
United States$55,000
Canada$58,000
United Kingdom£38,000
AustraliaA$70,000
Germany€45,000
India₹4,20,000

40‑Year Career Salary Projection

See how your earning potential grows throughout your career

0y10y20y30y40y$40k$60kYears of Experience

Top Paying Industries

Compare average salaries across sectors

Salary by Industry
Construction$55,000
Oil & Gas$68,000
Shipping & Ports$60,000
Infrastructure Projects$62,000
Manufacturing Plants$58,000

Salary by Specialization

Explore earning potential in different areas

Tower Crane Operator
$70,000
Average annual salary
Mobile Crane Operator
$58,000
Average annual salary
Overhead Crane Operator
$55,000
Average annual salary
Crawler Crane Operator
$65,000
Average annual salary
Key Factors Affecting Salary
  • Years of experience
  • Relevant certifications (NCCCO, OSHA)
  • Type of crane operated
  • Geographic location and cost of living
  • Overtime and night‑shift availability
  • Union membership and collective bargaining agreements

Certification Impact

Boost your earning potential with professional certifications

NCCCO Certified Crane Operator
up to $10,000 increase
Salary increase potential
OSHA 10‑Hour Construction Safety
approximately $2,000 boost
Salary increase potential
Certified Rigger (CITB)
around $3,500 boost
Salary increase potential

Global Market Insights

Understand the worldwide salary landscape

Highest Paying
United Arab Emirates
Fastest Growing
India
Most Stable
United States
Job Market Outlook

Demand for skilled crane operators remains strong as global infrastructure, renewable energy, and construction projects expand. The BLS projects a 5% growth through 2035, with higher hiring rates in regions investing heavily in ports, skyscrapers, and offshore wind farms. Operators who obtain NCCCO certification and specialize in tower or crawler cranes can command premium rates and enjoy greater job security.

Ready to Build Your Crane Operator Resume?

Start with our AI‑powered resume builder and land your dream role faster.

Get Started

More Salary Guides

Check out Resumly's Free AI Tools