Yes, Massachusetts is a highly lucrative market for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firerss. With an average annual salary of $87,660, professionals here earn significantly more than the national norm.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $87,660 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 28.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $104,000.
- Outlook: The current demand for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firerss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 140 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Massachusetts economy.
Salary Overview
The average Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in Massachusetts earns+40.6%above the national average.
$42.1
$1,686
$7,305
Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers salaries in Massachusetts have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 28.0%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers Salary Distribution in Massachusetts
The earning potential for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firerss in Massachusetts 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 $66,560, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $104,000.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $66,560 | $32 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $65,745 | $31.6 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $97,690 | $47 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $109,575 | $52.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $104,000 | $50 |
Detailed Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$87,660
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$59,070
Adjusted for COL (148.4)
While the average salary of $87,660 in Massachusetts is 41% higher than the national average, you should be aware of the cost of living. With a Cost of Living Index of 148.4, your real purchasing power is actually lower, effectively feeling like $59,070.
Job Market Context
140
Total Jobs
0.038
Per 1K Jobs
0.48
Location Quotient
At 0.48x, Massachusetts has a notably lower concentration of Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
140 people work as Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in Massachusetts.
Only 0.038 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers make in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in Massachusetts is $87,660. This typically ranges from $66,560 for entry-level positions to $104,000 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Massachusetts is 40.6% higher than the national median of $62,340.
Is Massachusetts a good place for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firerss?
Yes, Massachusetts is financially attractive for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firerss. The average salary of $87,660 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers?
The Cost of Living Index in Massachusetts is 148.4. 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 140 employees in the Massachusetts area with a job density of 0.038 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Massachusetts