Operate one or several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Annual wage data for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
469,270
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,080. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,780. 50th percentile: U.S. $58,710. 75th percentile: U.S. $75,750. 90th percentile: U.S. $100,690. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,080 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $100,690 |
| Workers on average earn | $65,180 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Frequently requested by employers in job postings