How much does a hoist operator make?

In the U.S., pay can differ with experience and skills, the employer or industry, and the state or area where the job is. Special equipment or tougher duties may call for extra training or certification, and working more hours or overnight shifts can change total earnings.

Operate or tend hoists or winches to lift and pull loads using power-operated cable equipment. Excludes “Crane and Tower Operators” (53-7021).

What's a typical day like?

They check the hoist, cable, and gauges, then use levers or pedals to wind cable and lift or pull a load. They watch marks and coworkers’ signals, adjust speed, and help guide safe loading and unloading.

Most jobs need no diploma, though a high-school diploma or GED helps; workers learn on the job. In the U.S., powered-hoist operators are generally 18 or older, and some equipment requires safety training, certification or licensing, and evaluation.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

Surprise: In the U.S., federal law generally bars anyone under 18 from operating or even helping with most powered hoists.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.