SalaryNode

Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Fresno, CA

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA, earn an average annual salary of $71,200. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $60,280, indicating a premium for these essential roles within the region. The localized demand and the critical nature of maintaining water infrastructure likely contribute to this elevated compensation.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $71,200 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.9% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $97,560.
  • Outlook: The job market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA, appears robust. With a total local workforce of 420 individuals and a Location Quotient of 1.09, the concentration of these professionals in Fresno is slightly above the national average. This suggests a steady demand for skilled operators to manage and maintain the area's water and wastewater systems.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$71,200

The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA earns+18.1%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$34.2

Weekly

$1,369

Monthly

$5,933

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Fresno, CA

Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA, typically involves a salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While exact figures vary, experienced operators often command higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge, operational expertise, and ability to manage complex systems. The percentile gaps in earnings signify the value placed on accumulated experience and advanced certifications within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$45,420$21.8
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$53,400$25.7
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$71,750$34.5
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$89,000$42.8
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$97,560$46.9

Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$71,200

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$71,200

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $71,200 in Fresno, CA, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator's salary in Fresno is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial standing without the added pressure of a higher cost of living.

Job Market Context

420

Total Jobs

0.894

Per 1K Jobs

1.09

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.09, Fresno, CA 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 1.09, Fresno, CA, exhibits a slightly higher concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators compared to the national average. This suggests a healthy and competitive job market where employers actively seek qualified professionals. The abundance of roles relative to the national benchmark indicates a stable demand for these essential services within the Fresno area.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators make in Fresno, CA?

The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA is $71,200. This typically ranges from $45,420 for entry-level positions to $97,560 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Fresno, CA is 18.1% higher than the national median of $60,280.

Is Fresno, CA a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?

Yes, Fresno, CA is a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators.The average salary of $71,200 is significantly higher than the national average, and the cost of living is at the national average, providing excellent purchasing power.

Is Fresno, CA a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?

The Cost of Living Index in Fresno, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Fresno, CA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Hanford-Corcoran, CA ($65,370) and Visalia, CA.

How does Fresno's salary compare to the national average for this role?

The average annual salary for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno, CA, is $71,200, which is notably higher than the national average of $60,280.

What is the concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno?

Fresno has a Location Quotient of 1.09 for this profession, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these workers compared to the national average.

How does the cost of living in Fresno affect the salary?

Fresno's Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the $71,200 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a financially stable location.

What is the total number of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Fresno?

There are approximately 420 Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators employed in the Fresno, CA area.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 420 employees in the Fresno, CA area with a job density of 0.894 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.