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How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in Tennessee

Crane and Tower Operators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $56,530/year, which is 15% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $2,543/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$57K
Median salary in Tennessee
-15%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
500
Employed in Tennessee

What a crane and tower operators can afford in Tennessee

Gross annual salary$56,530
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$3,955/mo
Median 2BR rent (Tennessee)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$56,530/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,543/mo

Becoming a crane and tower operators in Tennessee

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Tennessee

Tennessee employs 500 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Knoxville.

Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in Tennessee

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Memphis$67K$32.01/hr70
Knoxville$57K$27.48/hr100
Jackson$57K$27.18/hr60
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin$49K$23.73/hr140
Chattanooga$45K$21.83/hr40

Crane and Tower Operators salary range in Tennessee

10th percentile (entry)
$42K
25th percentile
$46K
Median (50th)
$57K
75th percentile
$72K
90th percentile (senior)
$86K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median crane and tower operators salary in Tennessee is $56,530 per year ($27.18/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $41,530 to $86,320.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $56,530, a crane and tower operators in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,955/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in Tennessee are Memphis ($66,580), Knoxville ($57,160), Jackson ($56,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means crane and tower operators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.