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Construction & Trades · North Dakota

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

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in North Dakota earn a median salary of $62,760/year, which is 7% above the national average. North Dakota has a state income tax of ~2.0%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,858/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$63K
Median salary in North Dakota
+7%
vs. national average
2.0%
State income tax
4,690
Employed in North Dakota

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

Gross annual salary$62,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.0% state tax)$4,270/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home33.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$62,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,858/mo

Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain North Dakota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in North Dakota

North Dakota employs 4,690 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Minot and Bismarck.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minot$63K$30.15/hr410
Bismarck$62K$29.65/hr500
Fargo$61K$29.55/hr900
Grand Forks$61K$29.23/hr420

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in North Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$49K
25th percentile
$58K
Median (50th)
$63K
75th percentile
$75K
90th percentile (senior)
$99K
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Full operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary breakdown in North Dakota
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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 North Dakota?

The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in North Dakota is $62,760 per year ($30.17/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $49,190 to $99,090.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $62,760, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Dakota would take home approximately $4,270/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.1% 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 North Dakota?

The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in North Dakota are Minot ($62,710), Bismarck ($61,660), Fargo ($61,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, North Dakota has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.0%. On a $62,760 salary, this means roughly $1,224/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.