How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Pennsylvania
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $58,580/year, which is 0% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,531/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 20,680 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and York-Hanover.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $67K | $32.07/hr | 5,360 |
| York-Hanover | $60K | $29/hr | 990 |
| State College | $60K | $28.93/hr | 390 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $60K | $28.77/hr | 820 |
| Lancaster | $60K | $28.72/hr | 810 |
| Pittsburgh | $60K | $28.64/hr | 4,600 |
| Chambersburg | $58K | $27.73/hr | 260 |
| Reading | $58K | $27.66/hr | 650 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $55K | $26.59/hr | 850 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $55K | $26.59/hr | 700 |
| Lebanon | $55K | $26.51/hr | 150 |
| Gettysburg | $55K | $26.34/hr | 190 |
| Erie | $53K | $25.48/hr | 250 |
| Williamsport | $50K | $23.94/hr | 220 |
| Altoona | $49K | $23.64/hr | 180 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Pennsylvania is $58,580 per year ($28.16/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $44,930 to $94,850.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Pennsylvania?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $58,580, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,943/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.8% 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 Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($66,700), York-Hanover ($60,320), State College ($60,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $58,580 salary, this means roughly $1,798/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.