Average Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary in Georgia
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $47,210. This figure is notably below the national average of $66,680, reflecting regional economic factors and the specific demand dynamics within the state's construction sector. The pay scale in Georgia is influenced by the local cost of living and the concentration of specialized roles within its workforce.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $47,210 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 20.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,480.
- Outlook: Georgia's construction equipment operator market is robust, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 15,720 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.06 suggests a concentration of these roles slightly above the national average, indicating a healthy and consistent demand for skilled operators within the state's ongoing development projects.
Salary Overview
The average Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia earns-29.2%below the national average.
$22.7
$908
$3,934
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia over the past four years, mirroring national trends of wage growth in skilled trades. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for infrastructure, and the need to attract and retain qualified personnel in a competitive labor market.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary Distribution in Georgia
Career progression for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the gap between starting wages and experienced professional salaries often widens considerably, signifying substantial earning potential as operators gain specialized skills, certifications, and years of operational experience.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $34,210 | $16.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $35,408 | $17 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $46,380 | $22.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $59,013 | $28.4 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $61,480 | $29.6 |
Detailed Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$47,210
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$52,926
Adjusted for COL (89.2)
The average annual salary of $47,210 in Georgia presents a favorable financial picture when contrasted with the state's Cost of Living Index of 89.2. This index, being below the national average of 100, means that the nominal salary earned by operators in Georgia holds greater purchasing power locally, allowing for a potentially higher standard of living compared to areas with a higher cost of living.
Job Market Context
15,720
Total Jobs
3.237
Per 1K Jobs
1.06
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.06, Georgia has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.06, Georgia's market for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This indicates a healthy demand and a slightly more competitive environment for these roles, suggesting that employers are actively seeking these skilled professionals and that the workforce is well-established within the state's economic landscape.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
Comparing salaries near Georgia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators make in Georgia?
The median annual salary for a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia is $47,210. This typically ranges from $34,210 for entry-level positions to $61,480 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Georgia is 29.2% lower than the national median of $66,680.
Is Georgia a lucrative place for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators?
Yes, considering the cost of living.While the average salary is below the national average, Georgia's lower cost of living means your earnings can provide a good standard of living. The market also shows a healthy concentration of these roles.
Is Georgia a good place to live for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators?
With a Cost of Living Index of 89.2 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Georgia?
Some top paying nearby cities include Macon-Bibb County, GA ($45,720) and Warner Robins, GA.
How does Georgia's salary for this role compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Georgia is $47,210, which is significantly lower than the national average of $66,680.
What is the size of the workforce for this role in Georgia?
Georgia has a substantial workforce of 15,720 Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators.
Does Georgia have a higher or lower concentration of these jobs compared to the national average?
Georgia has a slightly higher concentration of these jobs, with a Location Quotient of 1.06, indicating a presence marginally above the national average.
How does the cost of living in Georgia affect the salary?
Georgia's Cost of Living Index is 89.2, which is below the national average. This means the $47,210 salary has more purchasing power in Georgia than a similar salary would in a higher cost-of-living state.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 15,720 employees in the Georgia area with a job density of 3.237 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Georgia