How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in California
Crane and Tower Operators in California earn a median salary of $69,970/year, which is 5% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.9%. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $3,164/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a crane and tower operators can afford in California
Becoming a crane and tower operators in California
Meet education requirements
Crane and Tower Operators positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many crane and tower operators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for crane and tower operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,010 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura.
Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $119K | $57.08/hr | 60 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $81K | $39/hr | 60 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $77K | $37.15/hr | 160 |
| Vallejo | $74K | $35.69/hr | 30 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $71K | $34.33/hr | 110 |
| Fresno | $70K | $33.75/hr | 30 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $70K | $33.64/hr | 230 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $64K | $30.57/hr | 170 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $62K | $29.7/hr | 760 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $59K | $28.48/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $57K | $27.33/hr | 140 |
Crane and Tower Operators salary range in California
Crane and Tower Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a crane and tower operators make in California?▼
The median crane and tower operators salary in California is $69,970 per year ($33.64/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $43,830 to $135,010.
What are the requirements to become a crane and tower operators in California?▼
Crane and Tower Operators positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a crane and tower operators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $69,970, a crane and tower operators in California would take home approximately $4,576/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for crane and tower operators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($118,720), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($81,110), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($77,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for crane and tower operators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.9%. On a $69,970 salary, this means roughly $2,696/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.