SalaryNode

Average Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining Salary in New Jersey

Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in New Jersey command an impressive average annual salary of $97,490, significantly outpacing the national average of $58,100. This elevated compensation is likely driven by the state's robust industrial and construction sectors, which require specialized heavy machinery operation and may face unique logistical or regulatory challenges.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $97,490 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 55.1% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $125,130.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 840 individuals, the market for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in New Jersey indicates a stable, albeit specialized, employment landscape. The location quotient of 0.89 suggests that while the concentration of these roles is slightly below the national average, the absolute number of workers points to consistent demand within the state's specific economic activities.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$97,490

The average Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in New Jersey earns+67.8%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$46.9

Weekly

$1,875

Monthly

$8,124

Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining Salary Distribution in New Jersey

Career progression for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the substantial difference between starting wages and the $97,490 average suggests that accumulating years of experience, mastering complex machinery, and taking on greater responsibility are key drivers of higher earning potential.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$54,030$26
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$73,118$35.2
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$105,490$50.7
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$121,863$58.6
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$125,130$60.2

Detailed Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$97,490

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$86,735

Adjusted for COL (112.4)

The average annual salary of $97,490 in New Jersey presents a strong nominal income. However, with a Cost of Living Index of 112.4, which is 12.4% above the national average, the purchasing power of this salary is somewhat moderated. While still offering a good standard of living, individuals relocating to New Jersey should factor in these higher everyday expenses.

Job Market Context

840

Total Jobs

0.198

Per 1K Jobs

0.89

Location Quotient

Below Average

New Jersey has 0.89x the national average concentration of Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

A location quotient of 0.89 indicates that New Jersey has a slightly lower concentration of Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining compared to the national average. This suggests that while the jobs exist and are well-compensated, the market might not be as saturated as in other regions, potentially offering good opportunities for skilled professionals seeking employment.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Minings?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining make in New Jersey?

The median annual salary for a Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in New Jersey is $97,490. This typically ranges from $54,030 for entry-level positions to $125,130 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in New Jersey is 67.8% higher than the national median of $58,100.

Is New Jersey a lucrative place for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Minings?

Yes, New Jersey is a lucrative location for these operators.The average salary of $97,490 significantly exceeds the national average, indicating strong earning potential despite a slightly above-average cost of living.

Is New Jersey a good place to live for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Minings?

The Cost of Living Index in New Jersey is 112.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near New Jersey?

Some top paying nearby cities include New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ ($94,870) and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD.

What is the average salary for this role in New Jersey?

The average annual salary for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in New Jersey is $97,490.

How does New Jersey's salary compare to the national average?

The average salary in New Jersey is substantially higher than the national average of $58,100.

What is the cost of living in New Jersey compared to the national average?

New Jersey has a Cost of Living Index of 112.4, meaning it is 12.4% more expensive to live there than the national average.

How many of these operators work in New Jersey?

There are approximately 840 Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining employed in New Jersey.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 840 employees in the New Jersey area with a job density of 0.198 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.