Trade Career Guide
How to Become a Crane Operator
Crane operators use mobile and tower cranes to lift and position heavy materials on construction and industrial sites, where precision and safety are critical.
Median salary
$66,370
per year · BLS May 2024
Typical range
$40,220–$101,350
~10th–90th percentile
Job outlook
+3%
2024–2034 · About as fast as average
Time to qualify
Apprenticeship or 1–3 years of related experience
Step-by-step: becoming a Crane Operator
- 1
Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- 2
Complete an apprenticeship or gain related heavy-equipment experience.
- 3
Log the required training and seat hours.
- 4
Pass the NCCCO (or your state's) crane operator certification exam.
- 5
Earn your certification or license.
- 6
Recertify periodically to stay current.
Typical entry path: Apprenticeship or several years of experience; NCCCO or state certification usually required.
Ready to pass the NCCCO Crane Operator exam?
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Salary and job-outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Crane and Tower Operators, SOC 53-7021; OEWS wages May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. Verify current figures at bls.gov.