How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in Texas
Crane and Tower Operators in Texas earn a median salary of $72,870/year, which is 10% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $3,559/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a crane and tower operators can afford in Texas
Becoming a crane and tower operators in Texas
Meet education requirements
Crane and Tower Operators positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many crane and tower operators positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for crane and tower operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 6,650 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in Midland and Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands.
Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midland | $80K | $38.23/hr | 190 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $75K | $36.27/hr | 2,390 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $75K | $36.2/hr | 250 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $75K | $35.85/hr | 1,380 |
| Corpus Christi | $73K | $35.03/hr | 360 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $72K | $34.41/hr | 250 |
| Longview | $66K | $31.86/hr | — |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $66K | $31.81/hr | 300 |
| Amarillo | $64K | $30.55/hr | 40 |
| Odessa | $61K | $29.51/hr | 120 |
| Waco | $61K | $29.43/hr | 40 |
| El Paso | $58K | $27.89/hr | 120 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $58K | $27.8/hr | 40 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $54K | $26.02/hr | 80 |
| Tyler | $52K | $25/hr | 30 |
Crane and Tower Operators salary range in Texas
Crane and Tower Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a crane and tower operators make in Texas?▼
The median crane and tower operators salary in Texas is $72,870 per year ($35.03/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $40,060 to $92,040.
What are the requirements to become a crane and tower operators in Texas?▼
Crane and Tower Operators positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a crane and tower operators afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $72,870, a crane and tower operators in Texas would take home approximately $4,971/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for crane and tower operators in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in Texas are Midland ($79,510), Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($75,450), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($75,300). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for crane and tower operators?▼
No, Texas 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.