Hoist and Winch Operators: Salary, Job Outlook & How to Become One (2026 Parent Guide)

Hoist and Winch Operators fall under the Transportation and Material Moving category in the U.S. occupational classification. Hoist and Winch Operators earn a median salary of $56,450 per year, ranking in the top 58% of all U.S. occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects +0.2% job growth through 2035, projected to grow slower than the US average. Entry into this field typically requires a high school diploma plus on-the-job training, certifications, or postsecondary credentials, with specific licensing or certification depending on the state and employer. For parents whose teenager is exploring this path, the most actionable step is mapping the education requirements to specific colleges and majors before junior year — not waiting until application season.

What do hoist and winch operators earn?

The median annual wage for hoist and winch operators is $56,450. That puts hoist and winch operators at #479 on the BLS ranked list of all U.S. occupations by median pay. This salary is around or below the U.S. median for individual workers, so career growth often depends on advancement into supervisory roles, specialization, or additional credentials. Actual pay varies meaningfully by state, employer type, and years of experience — entry-level salaries are typically 30–40% below the median, while top-decile earners often exceed it by 50% or more.

Is hoist and winch operators a growing career?

The 10-year outlook for hoist and winch operators is +0.2%, projected to grow slower than the US average. Employment is projected to move from approximately 3K positions in 2024 to 3K in 2034, a net change of <1K. Flat growth typically reflects a mature, stable field. Most openings will come from retirements rather than new positions, which can favor candidates with strong networks and willingness to relocate.

What education does my child need to become hoist and winch operator?

Many hoist and winch operators enter the field with a high school diploma plus on-the-job training, though employers increasingly favor candidates with certifications or some postsecondary coursework. For parents helping a teen prepare, the highest-leverage step before junior year is identifying colleges and programs that feed reliably into this occupation — Solyo's college search lets parents filter by major and admissions data side by side.

Related careers your child might also consider

• Rail Transportation Workers, All Other
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• Sailors and Marine Oilers
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• Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
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• Dredge Operators
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• Bus Drivers, School
  $47,920 median
• Motorboat Operators
  $47,520 median

Common questions parents ask about hoist and winch operators