Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,130 | $51,650 | +28.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #9 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,300 jobs | 45,680 jobs | 2.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,640 | $18.58 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,350 | $23.73 |
| Median | $66,130 | $31.79 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,770 | $47.97 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,490 | $49.27 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $66,130 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of -1.3%, paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators remain an established career option.
How can paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators increase their salary in Illinois?
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment 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 #9 out of 51 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 Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Facilities Support Services | $88,940 |
| Rail Transportation | $76,630 |
| Rail Transportation | $76,630 |
How are Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in Illinois is $66,130, which is 28.0% above the national median of $51,650.