Trades & Labor Fort Smith, AR Pop. 89,142

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Fort Smith, AR is $42,032 per year, which is 20% below the national median and 4.8% below the Arkansas state average.

City Median
$42,032
vs State Avg
$-2,102
vs National
$-10,508
Cost of Living
80%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Fort Smith by Experience

In Fort Smith, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $28,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 80% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$28,800
$-7,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$43,200
$-10,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$64,000
$-16,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Fort Smith, AR

Percentile Fort Smith
10th Percentile $27,200
25th Percentile $32,800
Median (50th) $42,032
75th Percentile $54,400
90th Percentile $67,200

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other Arkansas Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Fort Smith

Education

Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. Fort Smith and the surrounding Arkansas area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Equipment OperationGPS/Grade ControlSafety ProceduresMechanical KnowledgeSpatial AwarenessCDL

Job Outlook

Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Fort Smith may vary based on local industry and population growth.