Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,120 | $58,710 | +51.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #3 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 36,040 jobs | 469,270 jobs | 7.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,730 | $26.31 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,840 | $31.66 |
| Median | $89,120 | $42.85 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,570 | $58.93 |
| 90th Percentile | $131,200 | $63.08 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $89,120 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +35.6%, operating engineers and other construction equipment operators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can operating engineers and other construction equipment operators increase their salary in California?
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California 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: California currently ranks #3 out of 54 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 Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Hydroelectric Power Generation | $119,160 |
| Painting and Wall Covering Contractors | $100,360 |
| Fossil Fuel Electric Power Generation | $95,570 |
How are Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in California is $89,120, which is 51.8% above the national median of $58,710.