Will AI replace hoist and winch operators?AI replacement risk 27% and how the work is changing
Median annual pay
$56,450
25th–75th pct. $42,690–$94,350
Top pay (est.)
$153,700
Top 10% $118,210
Pay in 5 years
$65,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$75,700est.
$65,100–$87,900
Outlook score
55/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
27%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+0.2%
300 openings / yr
Will AI replace Hoist and Winch Operators? AI replacement risk
27%
Low
Ranked #217 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high
How AI is changing this job
A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.
AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →
Skills, education and requirements for Hoist and Winch Operators
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Handling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsTraining and Teaching Others
Important abilities
Control PrecisionOral ComprehensionMultilimb CoordinationReaction TimeDepth PerceptionExtent Flexibility
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.