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Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in the Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $58,510. This figure is slightly below the national average of $60,280, a difference often influenced by regional economic factors and the specific demands of maintaining critical infrastructure in less densely populated areas. The localized pay reflects the unique balance between operational necessity and the economic landscape of the region.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $58,510 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.8% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $73,840.
  • Outlook: The job market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Northeastern Wisconsin appears robust, with a total local workforce of 240 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.5 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a specialized need for these skilled professionals within the region's economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$58,510

The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area earns-2.9%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$28.1

Weekly

$1,125

Monthly

$4,876

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area

Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators typically involves a salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the gap between starting and experienced roles signifies a clear path for advancement, with senior operators commanding higher compensation due to their accumulated expertise, responsibility, and specialized certifications.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$40,920$19.7
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$43,883$21.1
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$61,630$29.6
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$73,138$35.2
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$73,840$35.5

Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$58,510

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$58,510

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $58,510 in Northeastern Wisconsin aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal salary holds its purchasing power directly against the national standard, offering a stable financial environment for professionals considering a move to the area.

Job Market Context

240

Total Jobs

1.236

Per 1K Jobs

1.5

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area has 1.5x the national concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

With a Location Quotient of 1.5, Northeastern Wisconsin exhibits a higher concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators than the national average. This suggests a market where these roles are in relatively greater demand compared to other occupations, potentially leading to more job opportunities and a competitive environment for skilled professionals.

Nearby Job Markets

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 Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area?

The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area is $58,510. This typically ranges from $40,920 for entry-level positions to $73,840 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area is 2.9% lower than the national median of $60,280.

Is Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?

Yes, it offers competitive compensation relative to the cost of living.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power equivalent. The high location quotient also indicates strong local demand.

Is Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?

The Cost of Living Index in Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area?

Some top paying nearby cities include Wausau, WI ($58,640) and Oshkosh-Neenah, WI.

How does the local salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Northeastern Wisconsin is $58,510, which is slightly lower than the national average of $60,280.

What does the Location Quotient of 1.5 signify?

A Location Quotient of 1.5 means that Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators are 50% more concentrated in Northeastern Wisconsin than the national average, indicating higher local demand for this profession.

How does the Cost of Living in Northeastern Wisconsin affect the salary?

The Cost of Living Index is 100, matching the national average. This means the $58,510 salary has the same purchasing power locally as the national average salary does nationally.

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

There are approximately 240 Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators employed in the Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 240 employees in the Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 1.236 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.