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Construction & Trades · Missouri

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

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Missouri earn a median salary of $60,050/year, which is 2% above the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,606/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$60K
Median salary in Missouri
+2%
vs. national average
3.4%
State income tax
8,750
Employed in Missouri

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

Gross annual salary$60,050
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.4% state tax)$4,018/mo
Median 2BR rent (Missouri)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$60,050/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,606/mo

Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Missouri

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Missouri licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Missouri

Missouri employs 8,750 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in St. Louis and Cape Girardeau.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
St. Louis$81K$39.07/hr3,690
Cape Girardeau$64K$30.65/hr110
Kansas City$62K$30.01/hr3,770
St. Joseph$56K$27.04/hr230
Jefferson City$56K$26.87/hr350
Columbia$56K$26.69/hr240
Springfield$52K$25/hr510
Joplin$51K$24.38/hr300

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Missouri

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$50K
Median (50th)
$60K
75th percentile
$81K
90th percentile (senior)
$91K
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Full operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary breakdown in Missouri
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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 Missouri?

The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Missouri is $60,050 per year ($28.87/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $45,240 to $90,620.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $60,050, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Missouri would take home approximately $4,018/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.1% 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 Missouri?

The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Missouri are St. Louis ($81,260), Cape Girardeau ($63,740), Kansas City ($62,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $60,050 salary, this means roughly $2,069/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.