Average Power Plant Operators Salary in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area
Power Plant Operators in the South Illinois nonmetropolitan area earn an impressive average annual salary of $99,650. This figure slightly surpasses the national average of $97,730, indicating a strong demand for these specialized roles within the region. The localized pay reflects the critical nature of energy infrastructure and the specific operational needs of power generation facilities in this area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $99,650 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $105,670.
- Outlook: With a concentrated workforce of 360 Power Plant Operators, the South Illinois nonmetropolitan area exhibits a robust job market for this profession. The Location Quotient of 13.06 signifies a significantly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting strong and sustained demand that outpaces national trends.
Salary Overview
The average Power Plant Operators in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area earns+2.0%above the national average.
$47.9
$1,916
$8,304
Power Plant Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Power Plant Operators in South Illinois have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This upward trajectory is likely driven by increasing operational complexities, the need for skilled personnel, and the ongoing importance of reliable energy production.
Power Plant Operators Salary Distribution in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area
The career path for Power Plant Operators typically involves significant salary progression. Entry-level positions may start at lower percentiles, but with accumulated experience, specialized certifications, and demonstrated expertise, operators can advance to senior roles commanding higher salaries. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level compensation clearly signifies substantial career growth opportunities within this field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $78,940 | $38 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $74,738 | $35.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $105,670 | $50.8 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $124,563 | $59.9 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $105,670 | $50.8 |
Detailed Power Plant Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$99,650
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$99,650
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $99,650 in South Illinois aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Power Plant Operator's salary in this region is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment without the added pressure of higher living expenses.
Job Market Context
360
Total Jobs
2.601
Per 1K Jobs
13.06
Location Quotient
South Illinois nonmetropolitan area has 13.1x the national concentration of Power Plant Operators jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
The exceptionally high Location Quotient of 13.06 for Power Plant Operators in South Illinois indicates a highly concentrated and specialized job market. This suggests that the region relies heavily on local talent for these roles, making it a potentially competitive but also rewarding environment for experienced professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Power Plant Operators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Bloomington, IL Power Plant Operators Salary | $90,890↓ 9% | 9 mi |
| Springfield, IL Power Plant Operators Salary | $98,770↓ 1% | 53 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Illinois nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Power Plant Operatorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Power Plant Operators make in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Power Plant Operators in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area is $99,650. This typically ranges from $78,940 for entry-level positions to $105,670 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area is 2.0% higher than the national median of $97,730.
Is South Illinois nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Power Plant Operators?
Yes, South Illinois nonmetropolitan area is a lucrative place for Power Plant Operators.Power Plant Operators here earn above the national average salary, and the cost of living is exactly at the national average, enhancing their earning potential.
Is South Illinois nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Power Plant Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Illinois nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Bloomington, IL ($90,890) and Springfield, IL.
How does the number of Power Plant Operators in South Illinois compare nationally?
South Illinois has a total local workforce of 360 Power Plant Operators, with 2.601 jobs per 1,000 workers, indicating a significant presence relative to the national distribution.
What does a Location Quotient of 13.06 mean for Power Plant Operators in South Illinois?
A Location Quotient of 13.06 means that Power Plant Operator jobs are over 13 times more concentrated in South Illinois than the national average, signaling high regional demand.
How does the salary compare to the cost of living in South Illinois?
The average salary of $99,650 is well-positioned against the Cost of Living Index of 100, meaning your earnings will have average national purchasing power.
Is it difficult to find Power Plant Operator jobs in South Illinois?
Given the high Location Quotient, while the market is concentrated, the demand is significantly higher than the national average, suggesting ample opportunities for qualified individuals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 360 employees in the South Illinois nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 2.601 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Power Plant Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in South Illinois nonmetropolitan area