How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Louisiana
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Louisiana earn a median salary of $49,650/year, which is 15% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $1,955/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Louisiana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 7,230 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Baton Rouge and New Orleans-Metairie.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge | $57K | $27.24/hr | 2,220 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $51K | $24.72/hr | 1,330 |
| Lake Charles | $50K | $23.98/hr | 340 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $50K | $23.87/hr | 750 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $50K | $23.8/hr | 470 |
| Hammond | $49K | $23.53/hr | 80 |
| Lafayette | $48K | $23.13/hr | 380 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $47K | $22.62/hr | 190 |
| Monroe | $46K | $22.29/hr | 250 |
| Alexandria | $46K | $21.95/hr | 240 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Louisiana
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 Louisiana?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Louisiana is $49,650 per year ($23.87/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $36,410 to $73,400.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Louisiana?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Louisiana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $49,650, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Louisiana would take home approximately $3,367/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.9% 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 Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Louisiana are Baton Rouge ($56,650), New Orleans-Metairie ($51,430), Lake Charles ($49,880). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $49,650 salary, this means roughly $1,532/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.