Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Altoona, PA
The average salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Altoona, PA is $57,120. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market. Notably, Altoona, PA is a key hub for this profession, with a job concentration 1.37x higher than average.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $57,120 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $63,120.
- Outlook: The current demand for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Altoona, PA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Altoona, PA earns-5.2%below the national average.
$27.5
$1,098
$4,760
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salaries in Altoona, PA have shown healthy growth of 14.3%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA
The earning potential for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss in Altoona, PA 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 $46,620, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $63,120.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $46,620 | $22.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $42,840 | $20.6 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $61,710 | $29.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $71,400 | $34.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $63,120 | $30.3 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$57,120
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$57,120
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Altoona, PA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $57,120 to $57,120.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
1.127
Per 1K Jobs
1.37
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.37, Altoona, PA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators roles compared to the national norm.
70 people work as Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Altoona, PA.
1.127 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA
Hiring Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators make in Altoona, PA?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Altoona, PA is $57,120. This typically ranges from $46,620 for entry-level positions to $63,120 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 5.2% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Altoona, PA a good place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
Yes, Altoona, PA is highly recommended due to strong job demand. While salaries are competitive ($57,120), the area is particularly notable for its high job density for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($56,370) and State College, PA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 1.127 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Altoona, PA