Transportation · SOC 53-7041
Hands-on control of heavy hoisting equipment in variable site conditions limits AI's near-term role.
Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
Timeline: Semi-autonomous hoisting systems exist in mining, but full remote or AI-driven operation at varied worksites remains 10+ years away.
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$34,330 median pay
$35,270 median pay
$51,880 median pay
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AI job-risk card
Hoist and Winch Operators is resilient on AIFear. Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Hoist and Winch Operators is 14/100 (Resilient). Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
14 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Reading and logging dial gauges and indicator data, Following routing and positioning instructions from dispatch, Monitoring cable depth and load position signals. Harder to automate: Real-time physical response to site signals and workers, Adapting to uneven terrain and shifting loads, Judgment calls under hazardous or confined-space conditions.
Lean into Rigging and load calculation, Predictive maintenance monitoring, Safety management systems, Equipment telemetry interpretation. Consider roles such as Crane operator supervisor or Rigging inspector or Heavy equipment fleet coordinator.
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.