Hoist and Winch Operators
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Operate or tend hoists or winches to lift and pull loads using power-operated cable equipment.
Median pay: $56,450/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -1.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Move levers, pedals, and throttles to stop, start, and regulate speeds of hoist or winch drums in response to hand, bell, buzzer, telephone, loud-speaker, or whistle signals, or by observing dial indicators or cable marks.
• Start engines of hoists or winches and use levers and pedals to wind or unwind cable on drums.
• Observe equipment gauges and indicators and hand signals of other workers to verify load positions or depths.
• Operate compressed air, diesel, electric, gasoline, or steam-driven hoists or winches to control movement of cableways, cages, derricks, draglines, loaders, railcars, or skips.
• Move or reposition hoists, winches, loads and materials, manually or using equipment and machines such as trucks, cars, and hand trucks.
• Select loads or materials according to weight and size specifications.
• Signal and assist other workers loading or unloading materials.
• Attach, fasten, and disconnect cables or lines to loads, materials, and equipment, using hand tools.
What's the median pay for Hoist and Winch Operators?
The median pay for Hoist and Winch Operators is $56,450 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Hoist and Winch Operators?
Employment for Hoist and Winch Operators is projected to change -1.1% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Hoist and Winch Operators?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Hoist and Winch Operators?
About 300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.