Gas Plant Operators in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,950 | $83,400 | +15.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #10 of 43 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 810 jobs | 15,910 jobs | 5.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,590 | $32.02 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,880 | $32.15 |
| Median | $95,950 | $46.13 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,080 | $50.52 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,160 | $51.52 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Gas Plant Operators in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $95,950 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +45.9%, gas plant operators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can gas plant operators increase their salary in Illinois?
Gas Plant Operators in Illinois can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Illinois currently ranks #10 out of 43 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Gas Plant Operators in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution | $95,740 |
| Fossil Fuel Electric Power Generation | $95,640 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $89,410 |
How are Gas Plant Operators paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Gas Plant Operators in Illinois is $95,950, which is 15.0% above the national median of $83,400.