The average crane operator salary in NYC is $92,000 per year. Entry-level positions start at $66,000, while experienced operators can earn over $120,000 annually. Pay varies based on experience, union membership, certifications, and type of crane operated.
Average Crane Operator Salary in NYC
Crane operators in NYC earn an average of $92,000 annually, placing the city among the highest paying cities for this role. Entry-level workers earn $66,000 per year, while top earners make over $120,000 per year. Hourly pay ranges from $30 to over $80, depending on certifications, union status, and project complexity.
Crane Operator Salary in NYC
| Source | Hourly Wage (USD) | Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Indeed | $35.40 | N/A |
| Career Explorer | N/A | $103,580 |
| Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | $56.82 | $118,190 |
| Salary.com | $30.00 | $61,990 |
| Elite Trader | $82.15 | N/A |
| Operating Engineers Local 158 | $47.43 | N/A |
| Zippia | $33.87 | $70,448 |
Factors That Impact Crane Operator Salaries
Crane operator salaries in New York vary by experience, union status, certifications, and crane type. Operators managing tower or mobile cranes usually earn more than those using smaller equipment. Union members earn higher wages, with better access to overtime and benefits. Certifications increase pay by qualifying workers for high-risk, high-pay assignments.
Union vs Non-Union Crane Operator Pay
Union crane operators in NYC earn more than non-union workers. For example, Operating Engineers Local 158 reports an hourly rate of $47.43, while many non-union operators earn between $30 and $35 per hour. Union members also receive retirement plans, healthcare coverage, and paid training, increasing their total annual income.
Job Outlook and Career Progression
Crane operator jobs in NYC are expected to remain in demand through 2025 and beyond. Ongoing commercial and residential construction, plus public infrastructure projects, support steady employment. Crane operators working 50–60 hours per week often earn over $150,000 annually, especially during peak construction months. Promotion to roles like site supervisor or crane instructor offers further salary growth.
Certification Requirements
To work legally and earn top pay, crane operators must hold a Class A Hoisting Machine Operator license. This license is issued by the NYC Department of Buildings. Many also earn NCCCO certifications for specific crane types. Additional training in rigging, signaling, and safety boosts both skills and earnings.
Comparison With Other Cities and States
Crane operator salaries in NYC exceed those in most U.S. cities. In Houston, the average salary is around $72,000. In Los Angeles, it’s $78,000. NYC’s higher cost of living and union strength contribute to stronger wages. New York ranks among the top five states for crane operator pay.
Common Questions
See below for popular questions we get asked.
How does overtime impact a crane operator’s total earnings in NYC?
Crane operators in NYC can earn over $300,000 annually with overtime, especially on high-profile jobs like the World Trade Center site.
What factors contribute to the high hourly wage for crane operators in NYC?
Union contracts, dense construction zones, and state-mandated relief staffing drive up wages.
Is there a difference in pay between union and non-union crane operators in NYC?
Yes. Union operators average $47.43/hour, while non-union rates are significantly lower.
Are there seasonal fluctuations in crane operator salaries in NYC?
Yes. Work slows in winter, but summer and fall offer more hours and higher income.
What certifications or licenses are required to maximize earnings as a crane operator in NYC?
Class A Hoisting Machine Operator licenses and NCCCO certifications are required to reach the top pay levels.
Key Points Summary:
- Crane operators in NYC earn between $66,000 and $120,000+ per year.
- Union membership, certifications, and overtime increase total earnings.
- NYC offers some of the highest crane operator salaries in the U.S.
- Work demand and pay are expected to stay high in 2025.
Crane operator jobs in New York remain a good career choice for skilled workers who meet the licensing requirements and are ready to work long hours during peak construction months.
