Trades & Labor Delaware (DE) Rank #15 of 50

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Delaware

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Delaware is $53,065 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $52,540.

Median Salary
$53,065
vs National
+$525
State Rank
#15 of 50
Cost of Living
101%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Delaware by Experience

In Delaware, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $36,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,800 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,360
+$360 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,540
+$540 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$80,800
+$800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Delaware

Percentile DE Salary
10th Percentile $34,340
25th Percentile $41,410
Median (50th) $53,065
75th Percentile $68,680
90th Percentile $84,840

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary by City in Delaware

The largest employment areas for heavy equipment operators in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Wilmington, DE
$55,167
Pop. 70,898 · COL 105%
Dover, DE
$50,438
Pop. 39,403 · COL 96%
Newark, DE
$53,591
Pop. 33,398 · COL 102%
Middletown, DE
$51,489
Pop. 22,350 · COL 98%
Bear, DE
$52,015
Pop. 21,000 · COL 99%

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Delaware

Education

Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Equipment OperationGPS/Grade ControlSafety ProceduresMechanical KnowledgeSpatial AwarenessCDL

Job Outlook in Delaware

Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Delaware's demand may vary based on local industry trends.