Construction Equipment Operator Careers & Salary Information
Construction equipment operators run bulldozers, cranes, excavators, loaders, and other heavy machinery on job sites. Getting seat time on specialized equipment like cranes can push your earnings well above the median.
National Salary Overview
Construction Equipment Operator Specialties
Construction Equipment Operators can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Crane Operator
Operates tower cranes, mobile cranes, and overhead cranes to lift and place heavy materials on job sites. The highest-paid equipment operator specialty.
Excavator Operator
Runs hydraulic excavators for digging foundations, trenches, and site grading. One of the most in-demand operator positions.
Bulldozer Operator
Operates bulldozers for grading, clearing, and pushing material on construction and road projects. GPS grading skills are increasingly valuable.
Paving Equipment Operator
Runs asphalt pavers, rollers, and milling machines for road construction and resurfacing. Seasonal in northern states but steady in warmer climates.
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Construction Equipment Operator Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Construction Equipment Operator salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level construction equipment operators typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level construction equipment operators in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union construction equipment operators earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified construction equipment operator depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Construction Equipment Operator work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified construction equipment operators have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a construction equipment operator's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.