Power Plant Operators in South Dakota
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | South Dakota | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,400 | $99,670 | +5.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #12 of 51 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 40 jobs | 30,720 jobs | 0.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in South Dakota
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,470 | $31.48 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,750 | $37.38 |
| Median | $105,400 | $50.67 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,150 | $54.88 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,110 | $62.56 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Power Plant Operators in South Dakota in 2026?
With a median salary of $105,400 in South Dakota and a 2016–2024 salary trend of +47.2%, power plant operators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can power plant operators increase their salary in South Dakota?
Power Plant Operators in South Dakota 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: South Dakota currently ranks #12 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 Power Plant Operators in South Dakota?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $139,200 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $108,040 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $107,870 |
How are Power Plant Operators paid in South Dakota compared to the national average?
The median salary for Power Plant Operators in South Dakota is $105,400, which is 5.7% above the national median of $99,670.