Agricultural Equipment Operators: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 30,940 agricultural equipment operators, and they earn a median of $42,580/year. The range runs from $31K to $58K. Montana pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level agricultural equipment operators start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($43K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $58K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Montana | $54K | 80 |
| New York | $51K | 130 |
| Delaware | $50K | 60 |
| Ohio | $49K | 970 |
| Indiana | $49K | 830 |
| Iowa | $49K | 1,710 |
| Minnesota | $48K | 780 |
| North Dakota | $48K | 300 |
| Wisconsin | $48K | 670 |
| Maine | $48K | 40 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a agricultural equipment operators make?▼
The median agricultural equipment operators salary in the United States is $42,580 per year ($20/hour). Entry-level positions start around $31,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $57,790.
What education do you need to become a agricultural equipment operators?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for agricultural equipment operators?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for agricultural equipment operators.
What are the highest paying states for agricultural equipment operators?▼
The highest paying states for agricultural equipment operators are Montana ($53,900), New York ($51,100), Delaware ($50,450), Ohio ($49,070), Indiana ($48,930). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.