In Lexington-Fayette, KY, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators earn an average annual salary of $48,240. This figure is notably below the national average of $60,280, suggesting that local economic factors and demand play a significant role in compensation within this specific region. While the nominal salary may seem lower, understanding the local cost of living is crucial for a complete financial picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $48,240 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $60,540.
- Outlook: The job market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Lexington-Fayette, KY, appears moderately robust, with a total local workforce of 330 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.4 indicates a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand for skilled professionals in this sector within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Lexington-Fayette, KY earns-20.0%below the national average.
$23.2
$928
$4,020
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this role in Lexington-Fayette, KY is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing infrastructure needs, regulatory changes, and the ongoing demand for essential utility services.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Lexington-Fayette, KY
Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Lexington-Fayette, KY, typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile of the pay scale, while senior operators with extensive knowledge and responsibilities can command salaries significantly higher than the average. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies substantial earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $30,540 | $14.7 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $36,180 | $17.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $48,040 | $23.1 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $60,300 | $29 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $60,540 | $29.1 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$48,240
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$48,240
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $48,240 in Lexington-Fayette, KY, aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that, on average, the purchasing power of a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator's salary in this region is comparable to the national standard, offering a balanced financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
330
Total Jobs
1.153
Per 1K Jobs
1.4
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.40, Lexington-Fayette, KY 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 1.4, Lexington-Fayette, KY, exhibits a higher concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators than the national average. This suggests that the job market in this area is relatively more active and potentially competitive for these specialized roles, indicating a sustained need for qualified personnel within the local utility infrastructure.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Comparing salaries near Lexington-Fayette, KY
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 Lexington-Fayette, KY?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Lexington-Fayette, KY is $48,240. This typically ranges from $30,540 for entry-level positions to $60,540 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Lexington-Fayette, KY is 20.0% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Lexington-Fayette, KY a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $48,240 is below the national average of $60,280, although the cost of living is at the national average. This indicates that while the cost of living is manageable, the compensation is not as high as in other regions.
Is Lexington-Fayette, KY a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Lexington-Fayette, KY is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Lexington-Fayette, KY?
Some top paying nearby cities include Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area ($49,510) and South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area.
What is the average salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator in Lexington-Fayette, KY?
The average annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator in Lexington-Fayette, KY is $48,240.
How does the Lexington-Fayette, KY salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Lexington-Fayette, KY ($48,240) is lower than the national average salary of $60,280 for this profession.
What is the cost of living in Lexington-Fayette, KY?
The cost of living index in Lexington-Fayette, KY is 100, which is exactly the national average.
Is there high demand for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Lexington-Fayette, KY?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.4 suggests a higher concentration of these jobs locally compared to the national average, indicating steady demand.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 330 employees in the Lexington-Fayette, KY area with a job density of 1.153 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 Lexington-Fayette, KY