Average Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators Salary in Columbia, SC
The average salary for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operatorss in Columbia, SC is $49,220. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Columbia, SC may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $49,220 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 1.8% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $62,550.
- Outlook: The current demand for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operatorss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 120 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Columbia, SC economy.
Salary Overview
The average Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Columbia, SC earns-16.4%below the national average.
$23.7
$947
$4,102
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators salaries in Columbia, SC have seen a slight adjustment of -1.8%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
The earning potential for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operatorss in Columbia, SC varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $36,190, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $62,550.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $36,190 | $17.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $36,915 | $17.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $49,410 | $23.8 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $61,525 | $29.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $62,550 | $30.1 |
Detailed Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$49,220
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$49,220
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Columbia, SC, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $49,220 to $49,220.
Job Market Context
120
Total Jobs
0.316
Per 1K Jobs
1.07
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.07, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators roles compared to the national norm.
120 people work as Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Columbia, SC.
Only 0.316 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Columbia, SC is $49,220. This typically ranges from $36,190 for entry-level positions to $62,550 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 16.4% lower than the national median of $58,900.
Is Columbia, SC a good place for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operatorss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators salary in Columbia, SC is $49,220 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Columbia, SC. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 120 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.316 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC