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Construction & Trades · Minnesota

How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Minnesota

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Minnesota earn a median salary of $78,580/year, which is 34% above the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $3,567/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$79K
Median salary in Minnesota
+34%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
8,290
Employed in Minnesota

What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$78,580
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,979/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.4% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$78,580/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,567/mo

Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Minnesota typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Minnesota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Minnesota require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

Minnesota may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Minnesota Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 8,290 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Mankato.

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$82K$39.31/hr4,060
Mankato$80K$38.43/hr150
St. Cloud$78K$37.68/hr590
Rochester$78K$37.42/hr360
Duluth$73K$35.01/hr760

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$55K
25th percentile
$64K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$91K
90th percentile (senior)
$97K
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Full operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary breakdown in Minnesota
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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 Minnesota?

The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Minnesota is $78,580 per year ($37.78/hr). This is 34% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $54,600 to $96,560.

What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Minnesota?

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Minnesota typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Minnesota may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Minnesota licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Minnesota?

At the median salary of $78,580, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Minnesota would take home approximately $4,979/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.4% 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 Minnesota?

The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($81,770), Mankato ($79,920), St. Cloud ($78,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Minnesota have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $78,580 salary, this means roughly $3,916/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.