Trades & Labor Des Moines, IA Pop. 214,133

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Des Moines, Iowa

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Des Moines, IA is $48,337 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.

City Median
$48,337
vs State Avg
+$1,576
vs National
$-4,203
Cost of Living
92%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Des Moines by Experience

In Des Moines, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $33,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,120
$-2,880 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,680
$-4,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$73,600
$-6,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA

Percentile Des Moines
10th Percentile $31,280
25th Percentile $37,720
Median (50th) $48,337
75th Percentile $62,560
90th Percentile $77,280

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other Iowa Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Des Moines

Education

Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa 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 Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.