Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Arizona
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona earn an average annual salary of $58,490. This figure is slightly below the national average of $60,280, suggesting that while demand exists, other regional economic factors or a slightly larger talent pool may influence compensation in the Grand Canyon State. Understanding these local dynamics is key for professionals in this vital sector.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $58,490 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $77,450.
- Outlook: Arizona's water and wastewater treatment sector demonstrates a healthy presence, with a total local workforce of 3,470 individuals. The location quotient of 1.32 indicates a concentration of these roles higher than the national average, suggesting a robust and potentially growing demand for skilled operators within the state's infrastructure needs.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona earns-3.0%below the national average.
$28.1
$1,125
$4,874
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona have experienced a steady upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. This growth is typically driven by increasing infrastructure investment, evolving regulatory standards, and the persistent need for experienced professionals in this essential field.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Arizona
Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona typically sees significant salary increases with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior operators with extensive knowledge and certifications can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the value placed on accumulated expertise and responsibility within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $40,170 | $19.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $43,868 | $21.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $61,480 | $29.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $73,113 | $35.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $77,450 | $37.2 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$58,490
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$54,972
Adjusted for COL (106.4)
The nominal average salary of $58,490 in Arizona presents a mixed picture when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 106.4. This index is slightly above the national average, meaning that while the salary is competitive, the purchasing power might be marginally less than in a more cost-effective region, requiring careful budgeting for residents.
Job Market Context
3,470
Total Jobs
1.087
Per 1K Jobs
1.32
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.32, Arizona has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators roles compared to the national norm.
With a location quotient of 1.32, Arizona exhibits a higher concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators compared to the national average. This suggests a more specialized job market where these roles are relatively more prevalent, potentially indicating a stronger demand or a more established industry presence within the state.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary | $62,990↑ 8% | 39 mi |
| Prescott Valley-Prescott, AZ Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary | $54,510↓ 7% | 79 mi |
Comparing salaries near Arizona
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 Arizona?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona is $58,490. This typically ranges from $40,170 for entry-level positions to $77,450 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Arizona is 3.0% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Arizona a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
Yes, with caveats.Arizona offers a slightly above-average concentration of these jobs (LQ 1.32), indicating strong local demand. However, the average salary of $58,490 is just below the national average, and the cost of living is slightly higher than the national average.
Is Arizona a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Arizona is 106.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Arizona?
Some top paying nearby cities include Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ ($62,990) and Prescott Valley-Prescott, AZ.
How does Arizona's average salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona is $58,490, which is slightly lower than the national average of $60,280.
What is the concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Arizona?
Arizona has a location quotient of 1.32 for this profession, indicating that the concentration of these jobs is 32% higher than the national average.
How does the cost of living in Arizona affect the salary?
Arizona's Cost of Living Index is 106.4, which is 6.4% higher than the national average. This means the $58,490 salary may have slightly less purchasing power compared to a national average salary in a lower cost-of-living area.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers signify?
With 1.087 jobs per 1,000 workers, Arizona shows a solid presence of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator roles within its overall employment landscape.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 3,470 employees in the Arizona area with a job density of 1.087 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 Arizona