How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in North Carolina
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in North Carolina earn a median salary of $48,910/year, which is 17% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $1,849/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 15,890 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Durham-Chapel Hill and Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $51K | $24.46/hr | 490 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $51K | $24.42/hr | 4,310 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $51K | $24.35/hr | 2,670 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $50K | $23.85/hr | 100 |
| Rocky Mount | $49K | $23.72/hr | 200 |
| Burlington | $49K | $23.69/hr | 180 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $49K | $23.63/hr | 390 |
| Jacksonville | $48K | $23.29/hr | 160 |
| Fayetteville | $48K | $23.26/hr | 490 |
| Asheville | $48K | $23.18/hr | 490 |
| Wilmington | $48K | $23.17/hr | 790 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $48K | $23.1/hr | 1,170 |
| Winston-Salem | $47K | $22.74/hr | 620 |
| Greenville | $47K | $22.46/hr | 210 |
| Goldsboro | $46K | $22.14/hr | 160 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in North Carolina
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 North Carolina?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in North Carolina is $48,910 per year ($23.51/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $38,360 to $62,200.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Carolina?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $48,910, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,261/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.3% 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 North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill ($50,870), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($50,790), Raleigh-Cary ($50,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $48,910 salary, this means roughly $2,201/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.