SalaryNode

Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Yakima, WA

Yes, Yakima, WA is a highly lucrative market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss. With an average annual salary of $68,860, professionals here earn significantly more than the national norm.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $68,860 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 29.8% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $88,940.
  • Outlook: The current demand for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 80 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Yakima, WA economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$68,860

The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Yakima, WA earns+14.2%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$33.1

Weekly

$1,324

Monthly

$5,738

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Yakima, WA

The earning potential for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss in Yakima, WA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $47,100, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $88,940.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$47,100$22.6
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$51,645$24.8
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$69,120$33.2
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$86,075$41.4
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$88,940$42.8

Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$68,860

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$68,860

Adjusted for COL (100)

In Yakima, WA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $68,860 to $68,860.

Job Market Context

80

Total Jobs

0.814

Per 1K Jobs

0.99

Location Quotient

Below Average

Yakima, WA has 0.99x 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.

80 people work as Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Yakima, WA.

Only 0.814 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

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 Yakima, WA?

The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Yakima, WA is $68,860. This typically ranges from $47,100 for entry-level positions to $88,940 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Yakima, WA is 14.2% higher than the national median of $60,280.

Is Yakima, WA a good place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?

Yes, Yakima, WA is financially attractive for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss. The average salary of $68,860 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.

Is Yakima, WA a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?

The Cost of Living Index in Yakima, WA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Yakima, WA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA ($76,860) and Kennewick-Richland, WA.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 80 employees in the Yakima, WA area with a job density of 0.814 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.