How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Illinois
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Illinois earn a median salary of $96,980/year, which is 65% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $4,572/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Illinois
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 11,690 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Springfield.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $101K | $48.66/hr | 7,760 |
| Springfield | $100K | $48.05/hr | 230 |
| Rockford | $97K | $46.51/hr | 280 |
| Decatur | $97K | $46.49/hr | 80 |
| Bloomington | $94K | $44.96/hr | 200 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $92K | $44.43/hr | 160 |
| Kankakee | $91K | $43.55/hr | 90 |
| Peoria | $84K | $40.46/hr | 350 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Illinois
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 Illinois?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Illinois is $96,980 per year ($46.62/hr). This is 65% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $50,840 to $120,210.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Illinois?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $96,980, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Illinois would take home approximately $5,984/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.6% 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 Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($101,200), Springfield ($99,950), Rockford ($96,740). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $96,980 salary, this means roughly $4,801/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.