Wages vary based on the operator's experience. Crane and tower operators who belong to a union generally receive higher wages. Also, pay is usually higher in large urban areas. Seasonal work may reduce overall earnings.
Crane and tower operators who work full time usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance.
Crane and tower operators (SOC 53-7021)
| Location |
Pay Period | |
||
| 25% |
Median |
75% |
||
| Illinois | Hourly | $21.94 | $26.22 | $47.81 |
| Yearly | $45,633 | $54,534 | $99,460 | |
| Cook County | Hourly | $21.18 | $26.10 | $38.64 |
| Yearly | $44,059 | $54,288 | $80,376 | |
| Lake County | Hourly | $21.18 | $26.21 | $39.19 |
| Yearly | $44,058 | $54,527 | $81,508 | |
| Northwest Illinois Area | Hourly | $19.76 | $22.41 | $25.06 |
| Yearly | $41,091 | $46,608 | $52,126 | |
| Peoria-Bloomington Area | Hourly | $26.63 | $26.63 | $32.12 |
| Yearly | $55,392 | $55,392 | $66,817 | |
| Rock Island-Moline Area | Hourly | $17.81 | $18.86 | $23.34 |
| Yearly | $37,061 | $39,225 | $48,545 | |
| Rockford Area | Hourly | $18.53 | $22.53 | $29.61 |
| Yearly | $38,540 | $46,862 | $61,603 | |
| United States | Hourly | $24.50 | $31.91 | $39.24 |
| Yearly | $50,970 | $66,370 | $81,630 | |