How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Virginia
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Virginia earn a median salary of $52,240/year, which is 11% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,049/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Virginia
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 11,280 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $51K | $24.58/hr | 300 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $50K | $23.97/hr | 2,200 |
| Richmond | $49K | $23.75/hr | 2,210 |
| Harrisonburg | $49K | $23.62/hr | 230 |
| Winchester | $49K | $23.44/hr | 250 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $49K | $23.42/hr | 420 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $48K | $22.91/hr | 130 |
| Lynchburg | $47K | $22.54/hr | 200 |
| Roanoke | $47K | $22.46/hr | 410 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Virginia
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 Virginia?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Virginia is $52,240 per year ($25.11/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $39,580 to $73,800.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Virginia?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $52,240, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Virginia would take home approximately $3,461/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.8% 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 Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Virginia are Charlottesville ($51,130), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($49,860), Richmond ($49,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $52,240 salary, this means roughly $2,488/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.