Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 469,270 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators, and they earn a median of $58,710/year. The range runs from $40K to $101K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level operating engineers and other construction equipment operators start around $40K. The gap between that and the median ($59K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $101K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $105K | 1,740 |
| Illinois | $97K | 11,690 |
| California | $89K | 36,040 |
| New Jersey | $84K | 6,450 |
| New York | $80K | 14,700 |
| Washington | $79K | 9,070 |
| Minnesota | $79K | 8,290 |
| Connecticut | $77K | 2,810 |
| Rhode Island | $76K | 850 |
| Alaska | $75K | 3,170 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators make?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in the United States is $58,710 per year ($28/hour). Entry-level positions start around $40,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,690.
What education do you need to become a operating engineers and other construction 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 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators.
What are the highest paying states for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
The highest paying states for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators are Hawaii ($105,440), Illinois ($96,980), California ($89,120), New Jersey ($84,170), New York ($80,260). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.