How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in Washington
Crane and Tower Operators in Washington earn a median salary of $96,870/year, which is 46% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $4,966/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a crane and tower operators can afford in Washington
Becoming a crane and tower operators in Washington
Meet education requirements
Crane and Tower Operators positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many crane and tower operators positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for crane and tower operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 890 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in Mount Vernon-Anacortes and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $114K | $54.66/hr | 70 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $106K | $50.97/hr | 470 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $102K | $49.03/hr | — |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $77K | $37.13/hr | 60 |
Crane and Tower Operators salary range in Washington
Crane and Tower Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a crane and tower operators make in Washington?▼
The median crane and tower operators salary in Washington is $96,870 per year ($46.57/hr). This is 46% above the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $64,200 to $128,610.
What are the requirements to become a crane and tower operators in Washington?▼
Crane and Tower Operators positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a crane and tower operators afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $96,870, a crane and tower operators in Washington would take home approximately $6,378/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.1% 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 Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in Washington are Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($113,700), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($106,010), Kennewick-Richland ($101,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for crane and tower operators?▼
No, Washington 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.