The median annual salary in May 2023 for all operating engineers and other construction equipment operators was $56,160, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Salaries ranged from less than $38,410 to more than $95,570 a year.

Often, workers are paid by the hour. Rates vary according to the area of the country and the employer. In highway, street, and bridge construction, the ...

Operating engineers consider dirt and noise a part of their jobs. Some of the machines on which they work constantly shake and jolt them. This constant movement, along with the strenuous, outdoor nature of the work, makes this a physically tiring job. Since the work is done almost entirely outdoors in almost any kind of weather, operating engineers must be willing to work under conditions that ...

Employment of construction equipment operators is projected to grow by 4 percent, as fast as the average for all careers, through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Job opportunities for pile-drivers will be slightly better, growing faster than the average for all careers. There will be many opportunities for operating engineers. They will be needed to assist with the repair of hi...