Crane and Tower Operators
SOC Code: 53-7021
Crane and Tower Operatorss determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload. This career typically requires medium preparation (1-2 years). With an AI-proof score of 88.0/100, this role has high resilience to automation. Key skills include Operation and Control, Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control.
AI-Proof Score: 88.0 — Very High
💰
Median Salary
$66,370
📈
Job Growth
3.0%
⏱️
Training Time
Medium preparation (1-2 years)
🎓
Job Zone
Zone 3 / 5
💵
Training Cost
~$15,000
Key Skills
- •Operation and Control
- •Operations Monitoring
- •Critical Thinking
- •Monitoring
- •Active Listening
- •Troubleshooting
- •Reading Comprehension
Common Tasks
- ✓Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload.
- ✓Move levers, depress foot pedals, or turn dials to operate cranes, cherry pickers, electromagnets, or other moving equipment for lifting, moving, or placing loads.
- ✓Inspect and adjust crane mechanisms or lifting accessories to prevent malfunctions or damage.
- ✓Inspect cables or grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables, as needed.
- ✓Direct helpers engaged in placing blocking or outrigging under cranes.
Training & Resources
Why AI-Proof?
- ✅Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
- ✅Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
- ✅Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
- ✅Social and regulatory barriers to full automation