Average Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary in Wausau, WI
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI, command an impressive average annual salary of $74,390. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $66,680, indicating a strong local demand for these skilled professionals. The robust pay in Wausau is likely influenced by the specific needs of the regional construction sector and the availability of qualified labor.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $74,390 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 10.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $92,510.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 220 individuals in this specialized field, Wausau, WI, presents a stable employment landscape for Operating Engineers. The Location Quotient of 1.03 suggests that the concentration of these roles in Wausau is slightly above the national average, implying a healthy and consistent demand that aligns with the size of the local workforce.
Salary Overview
The average Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI earns+11.6%above the national average.
$35.8
$1,431
$6,199
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI, have experienced steady growth over the past four years. This trend is typical for skilled trades in areas with consistent construction activity, reflecting an increasing demand for experienced operators and the rising costs associated with specialized equipment operation.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary Distribution in Wausau, WI
Career progression for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI, is clearly reflected in salary potential. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized certifications can command salaries significantly above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings underscore the value placed on expertise and years of dedicated service in this demanding field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $47,930 | $23 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $55,793 | $26.8 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $78,250 | $37.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $92,988 | $44.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $92,510 | $44.5 |
Detailed Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$74,390
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$74,390
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $74,390 in Wausau, WI, is particularly attractive when considered against the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is precisely the national average. This means that the purchasing power of an Operating Engineer's salary in Wausau is equivalent to the national standard, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the added financial strain often associated with higher-paying, high-cost-of-living areas.
Job Market Context
220
Total Jobs
3.133
Per 1K Jobs
1.03
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.03, Wausau, WI has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.03 for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI, indicates a job market that is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for these professionals relative to the general workforce, positioning Wausau as a market where these skills are valued and sought after, without being overly saturated.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
Comparing salaries near Wausau, WI
Hiring Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operatorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators make in Wausau, WI?
The median annual salary for a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI is $74,390. This typically ranges from $47,930 for entry-level positions to $92,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Wausau, WI is 11.6% higher than the national median of $66,680.
Is Wausau, WI a lucrative place for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operatorss?
Yes, Wausau, WI offers a lucrative environment for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators.The average salary of $74,390 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living remains at the national benchmark, enhancing the real value of this compensation.
Is Wausau, WI a good place to live for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Wausau, WI is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Wausau, WI?
Some top paying nearby cities include South Central Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area ($71,830) and Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area.
How does Wausau's salary for this role compare to the national average?
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Wausau, WI, earn an average of $74,390 annually, which is notably higher than the national average of $66,680.
What is the concentration of Operating Engineers in Wausau, WI?
Wausau, WI has a Location Quotient of 1.03 for this profession, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average.
Does the cost of living in Wausau affect the salary competitiveness?
No, the cost of living in Wausau is at the national average (100), meaning the higher-than-average salary of $74,390 offers strong purchasing power for residents.
How many Operating Engineers are there in Wausau, WI?
There are approximately 220 Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators employed in the Wausau, WI area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 220 employees in the Wausau, WI area with a job density of 3.133 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 Wausau, WI