How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Tennessee
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $49,070/year, which is 16% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,044/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 10,190 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $50K | $23.93/hr | 1,280 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $50K | $23.87/hr | 3,500 |
| Knoxville | $49K | $23.46/hr | 1,180 |
| Cleveland | $48K | $23.13/hr | 170 |
| Chattanooga | $48K | $23.06/hr | 680 |
| Clarksville | $48K | $22.94/hr | 370 |
| Jackson | $47K | $22.82/hr | 270 |
| Johnson City | $47K | $22.46/hr | 230 |
| Morristown | $47K | $22.46/hr | 220 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $46K | $22.18/hr | 460 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Tennessee
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 Tennessee?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Tennessee is $49,070 per year ($23.59/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $38,020 to $67,850.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Tennessee?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $49,070, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,456/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.9% 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 Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Tennessee are Memphis ($49,780), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($49,640), Knoxville ($48,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means operating engineers and other construction equipment operators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.