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Transportation · Kentucky

How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in Kentucky

Crane and Tower Operators in Kentucky earn a median salary of $55,100/year, which is 17% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $2,264/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$55K
Median salary in Kentucky
-17%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
770
Employed in Kentucky

What a crane and tower operators can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$55,100
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$3,676/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home38.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$55,100/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,264/mo

Becoming a crane and tower operators in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Crane and Tower Operators positions in Kentucky typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many crane and tower operators positions in Kentucky require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification

Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for crane and tower operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kentucky Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Kentucky

Kentucky employs 770 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Lexington-Fayette.

Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$67K$32/hr170
Lexington-Fayette$55K$26.21/hr50

Crane and Tower Operators salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$40K
25th percentile
$42K
Median (50th)
$55K
75th percentile
$69K
90th percentile (senior)
$84K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a crane and tower operators make in Kentucky?

The median crane and tower operators salary in Kentucky is $55,100 per year ($26.49/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $40,090 to $83,970.

What are the requirements to become a crane and tower operators in Kentucky?

Crane and Tower Operators positions in Kentucky typically require No formal educational credential. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a crane and tower operators afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $55,100, a crane and tower operators in Kentucky would take home approximately $3,676/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for crane and tower operators in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($66,560), Lexington-Fayette ($54,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for crane and tower operators?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $55,100 salary, this means roughly $2,204/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.