Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Topeka, KS
The average salary for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss in Topeka, KS is $45,390. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Topeka, KS may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $45,390 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 2.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $65,730.
- Outlook: The current demand for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 110 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Topeka, KS economy.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Topeka, KS earns-24.7%below the national average.
$21.8
$873
$3,783
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salaries in Topeka, KS have remained stable with a modest increase of 2.9%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Topeka, KS
The earning potential for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss in Topeka, KS varies significantly by experience level. There is a substantial income gap, with top earners (90th percentile) making over 4.4x the starting salary. This indicates strong career progression opportunities. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $15,080, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $65,730.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $15,080 | $7.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $34,043 | $16.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $42,660 | $20.5 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $56,738 | $27.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $65,730 | $31.6 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$45,390
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$45,390
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Topeka, KS, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $45,390 to $45,390.
Job Market Context
110
Total Jobs
0.953
Per 1K Jobs
1.16
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.16, Topeka, KS has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators roles compared to the national norm.
110 people work as Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Topeka, KS.
Only 0.953 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Comparing salaries near Topeka, KS
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 Topeka, KS?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Topeka, KS is $45,390. This typically ranges from $15,080 for entry-level positions to $65,730 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Topeka, KS is 24.7% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Topeka, KS a good place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary in Topeka, KS is $45,390 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Topeka, KS. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Topeka, KS a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Topeka, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Topeka, KS?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lawrence, KS ($55,750) and Manhattan, KS.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 110 employees in the Topeka, KS area with a job density of 0.953 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 Topeka, KS