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How to Become a Crane and Tower Operators in Wisconsin

Crane and Tower Operators in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $68,310/year, which is 3% above the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a crane and tower operators takes home approximately $3,077/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$68K
Median salary in Wisconsin
+3%
vs. national average
3.8%
State income tax
730
Employed in Wisconsin

What a crane and tower operators can afford in Wisconsin

Gross annual salary$68,310
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.8% state tax)$4,489/mo
Median 2BR rent (Wisconsin)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$68,310/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,077/mo

Becoming a crane and tower operators in Wisconsin

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Wisconsin

Wisconsin employs 730 crane and tower operators. The highest concentrations are in Madison and Milwaukee-Waukesha.

Crane and Tower Operators salary by metro area in Wisconsin

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Madison$69K$33.17/hr60
Milwaukee-Waukesha$66K$31.71/hr230
Oshkosh-Neenah$60K$28.7/hr30
Janesville-Beloit$59K$28.54/hr30

Crane and Tower Operators salary range in Wisconsin

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$54K
Median (50th)
$68K
75th percentile
$99K
90th percentile (senior)
$105K
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Full crane and tower operators salary breakdown in Wisconsin
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Crane and Tower Operators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

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

The median crane and tower operators salary in Wisconsin is $68,310 per year ($32.84/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $66,370. Salaries range from $45,310 to $104,900.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $68,310, a crane and tower operators in Wisconsin would take home approximately $4,489/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for crane and tower operators in Wisconsin are Madison ($69,000), Milwaukee-Waukesha ($65,960), Oshkosh-Neenah ($59,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $68,310 salary, this means roughly $2,574/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.