Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Memphis, TN-MS-AR
In Memphis, TN-MS-AR, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators earn an average annual salary of $55,940. This figure is notably below the national average of $60,280, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially lower operational costs influence compensation in this region. The specific economic landscape of Memphis shapes the earning potential for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $55,940 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 26.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $82,700.
- Outlook: The Memphis, TN-MS-AR area supports a local workforce of 310 individuals in Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator roles. With a Location Quotient of 0.61, the concentration of these jobs is below the national average, indicating a less specialized market for this profession within the region compared to the rest of the country. While the absolute number of workers is modest, the demand, as reflected by jobs per 1,000 workers at 0.505, suggests a steady, albeit not exceptionally high, presence of these critical positions.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Memphis, TN-MS-AR earns-7.2%below the national average.
$26.9
$1,076
$4,662
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for the Memphis, TN-MS-AR region is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing infrastructure needs, regulatory changes, and the demand for skilled professionals likely contribute to a gradual upward trajectory in compensation across the industry.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Memphis, TN-MS-AR
Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data for Memphis is unavailable, national trends indicate that experienced operators, those with specialized certifications, and those in supervisory roles can command salaries considerably higher than the average. The gap between entry-level and senior roles represents a clear career ladder, with increased responsibility and expertise leading to greater earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $37,420 | $18 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $41,955 | $20.2 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $50,760 | $24.4 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $69,925 | $33.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $82,700 | $39.8 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$55,940
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$55,940
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $55,940 in Memphis, TN-MS-AR aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average. Consequently, individuals relocating to Memphis can expect their earnings to cover basic living expenses at a standard rate comparable to the rest of the United States, without significant financial strain or unexpected cost advantages.
Job Market Context
310
Total Jobs
0.505
Per 1K Jobs
0.61
Location Quotient
Memphis, TN-MS-AR has 0.61x the national average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.61 for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Memphis, TN-MS-AR indicates that this profession is less concentrated in the region than the national average. This suggests that while the jobs exist, the market is not heavily saturated with these specialists. For job seekers, this could mean moderate competition, while for employers, it might present a slight challenge in finding a large pool of highly specialized candidates.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Jonesboro, AR Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary | $42,750↓ 24% | 64 mi |
| Jackson, TN Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary | $53,740↓ 4% | 74 mi |
Comparing salaries near Memphis, TN-MS-AR
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 Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $55,940. This typically ranges from $37,420 for entry-level positions to $82,700 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 7.2% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $55,940 is below the national average of $60,280, indicating lower earning potential in this region. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning the salary's purchasing power is standard.
Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
Some top paying nearby cities include Jonesboro, AR ($42,750) and Jackson, TN.
What is the average salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator in Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
The average annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $55,940.
How does the Memphis salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Memphis ($55,940) is lower than the national average ($60,280) for this profession.
What is the Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100, which is the same as the national average.
Is there high demand for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Memphis?
The demand is moderate, with 0.505 jobs per 1,000 workers and a Location Quotient of 0.61, indicating a concentration below the national average.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 310 employees in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area with a job density of 0.505 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 Memphis, TN-MS-AR