How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Colorado
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Colorado earn a median salary of $62,620/year, which is 5% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,089/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Colorado
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Colorado
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Colorado licensure or certification
Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Colorado
Colorado employs 11,700 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Fort Collins-Loveland.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Colorado
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boulder | $71K | $34.16/hr | 190 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $65K | $31.08/hr | 600 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial | $64K | $30.81/hr | 5,150 |
| Colorado Springs | $62K | $29.64/hr | 1,030 |
| Pueblo | $61K | $29.39/hr | 310 |
| Greeley | $61K | $29.18/hr | 1,550 |
| Grand Junction | $58K | $27.74/hr | 390 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Colorado
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 Colorado?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Colorado is $62,620 per year ($30.11/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $59,850. Salaries range from $49,480 to $78,870.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Colorado?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Colorado?▼
At the median salary of $62,620, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Colorado would take home approximately $4,133/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,044/month, that's 49.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Colorado?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Colorado are Boulder ($71,060), Fort Collins-Loveland ($64,650), Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($64,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Colorado have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $62,620 salary, this means roughly $2,755/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.