Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
In Oklahoma City, OK, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators earn an average annual salary of $50,750. This figure is notably below the national average of $60,280, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially regional economic factors influence compensation for this essential role. While the pay may be lower than the national benchmark, understanding the local cost of living is crucial for a complete financial picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $50,750 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $64,760.
- Outlook: The job market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City appears stable, with a local workforce of 610 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.11 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a steady, if not rapidly expanding, demand for their specialized skills within the city.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City, OK earns-15.8%below the national average.
$24.4
$976
$4,229
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City have seen gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This progression is typically driven by inflation, increasing demand for essential infrastructure services, and the need to attract and retain skilled personnel in a competitive labor market.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Oklahoma City, OK
Career progression for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. As operators gain experience, acquire advanced certifications, and take on more complex responsibilities, their earning potential grows substantially. The percentile gaps in salary reflect this upward mobility, with experienced professionals commanding higher compensation due to their expertise and proven track record.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $35,130 | $16.9 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $38,063 | $18.3 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $48,970 | $23.5 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $63,438 | $30.5 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $64,760 | $31.1 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$50,750
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$50,750
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $50,750 and a Cost of Living Index of 100 (which is precisely the national average), the nominal income in Oklahoma City for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators holds its purchasing power directly in line with the rest of the country. This means that while the salary may be lower than the national average, the cost of goods and services is also at the national average, offering a balanced financial environment.
Job Market Context
610
Total Jobs
0.915
Per 1K Jobs
1.11
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.11, Oklahoma City, OK has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.11 for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City signifies a slightly higher concentration of these roles than the national average. This suggests that the job market is neither oversaturated nor exceptionally scarce, indicating a healthy demand that aligns with the number of professionals in the area. Employers likely find a competent pool of candidates readily available.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Comparing salaries near Oklahoma City, OK
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 Oklahoma City, OK?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City, OK is $50,750. This typically ranges from $35,130 for entry-level positions to $64,760 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Oklahoma City, OK is 15.8% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Oklahoma City, OK a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
No, but it offers balanced purchasing power.While the average salary of $50,750 is below the national average, the Cost of Living Index of 100 means your earnings will have the same purchasing power as the national average.
Is Oklahoma City, OK a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Oklahoma City, OK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Oklahoma City, OK?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area ($40,340) and Northeast Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area.
How does experience affect pay for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City?
Experience significantly boosts earning potential. Entry-level operators earn less, while senior operators with extensive knowledge and certifications command higher salaries, reflecting their value and responsibilities.
What is the concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Oklahoma City compared to the nation?
Oklahoma City has a slightly higher concentration of these professionals, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.11, suggesting a stable demand for their services.
Does the cost of living in Oklahoma City impact the value of the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator salary?
No, the Cost of Living Index is exactly 100, meaning the $50,750 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary in a national average cost-of-living area.
How many Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators work in Oklahoma City?
There are approximately 610 Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators employed in Oklahoma City, OK.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 610 employees in the Oklahoma City, OK area with a job density of 0.915 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 Oklahoma City, OK