How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California earn a median salary of $89,120/year, which is 52% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $4,143/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in California
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in California
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 36,040 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $117K | $56.42/hr | 4,560 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $116K | $55.53/hr | 1,350 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $99K | $47.51/hr | 640 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $93K | $44.82/hr | 8,430 |
| Vallejo | $92K | $44.03/hr | 530 |
| Modesto | $87K | $41.84/hr | 470 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $84K | $40.28/hr | 530 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $83K | $39.78/hr | 2,810 |
| Napa | $82K | $39.64/hr | 210 |
| Fresno | $82K | $39.44/hr | 1,320 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $81K | $39.1/hr | 2,940 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $81K | $38.92/hr | 800 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $79K | $38.18/hr | 420 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $79K | $38.05/hr | 4,750 |
| Salinas | $79K | $38/hr | 290 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in California
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators make in California?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in California is $89,120 per year ($42.85/hr). This is 52% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $54,730 to $131,200.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in California?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $89,120, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in California would take home approximately $5,555/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($117,350), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($115,500), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($98,830). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $89,120 salary, this means roughly $4,426/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.