Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Washington
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Washington | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,190 | $58,710 | +34.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #6 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 9,070 jobs | 469,270 jobs | 1.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Washington
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,580 | $26.24 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,110 | $30.82 |
| Median | $79,190 | $38.07 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,060 | $52.44 |
| 90th Percentile | $123,080 | $59.18 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Washington in 2026?
With a median salary of $79,190 in Washington and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +35.8%, 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 Washington?
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Washington 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: Washington currently ranks #6 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 Washington?
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 Washington compared to the national average?
The median salary for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Washington is $79,190, which is 34.9% above the national median of $58,710.