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Construction & Trades · New Jersey

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

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in New Jersey earn a median salary of $84,170/year, which is 43% above the national average. New Jersey has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $3,952/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$84K
Median salary in New Jersey
+43%
vs. national average
3.8%
State income tax
6,450
Employed in New Jersey

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

Gross annual salary$84,170
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.8% state tax)$5,364/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Jersey)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home26.3% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$84,170/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,952/mo

Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in New Jersey

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New Jersey licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New Jersey

New Jersey employs 6,450 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Atlantic City-Hammonton and Trenton-Princeton.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Atlantic City-Hammonton$77K$37.03/hr310
Trenton-Princeton$73K$35.32/hr260
Vineland$73K$35.23/hr170

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in New Jersey

10th percentile (entry)
$55K
25th percentile
$68K
Median (50th)
$84K
75th percentile
$123K
90th percentile (senior)
$130K
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Full operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary breakdown in New Jersey
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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 New Jersey?

The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in New Jersey is $84,170 per year ($40.47/hr). This is 43% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $54,900 to $130,110.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $84,170, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in New Jersey would take home approximately $5,364/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.3% 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 New Jersey?

The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in New Jersey are Atlantic City-Hammonton ($77,020), Trenton-Princeton ($73,470), Vineland ($73,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $84,170 salary, this means roughly $3,235/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.