Trades & Labor New Orleans, LA Pop. 383,997

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in New Orleans, Louisiana

The median heavy equipment operator salary in New Orleans, LA is $54,116 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Louisiana state average.

City Median
$54,116
vs State Avg
+$3,678
vs National
+$1,576
Cost of Living
98%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in New Orleans by Experience

In New Orleans, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $37,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,080
+$1,080 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$55,620
+$1,620 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$82,400
+$2,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in New Orleans, LA

Percentile New Orleans
10th Percentile $35,020
25th Percentile $42,230
Median (50th) $54,116
75th Percentile $70,040
90th Percentile $86,520

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other Louisiana Cities

Baton Rouge, LA
$50,964
Pop. 227,470
Lafayette, LA
$48,862
Pop. 121,374
Lake Charles, LA
$47,811
Pop. 80,000
Shreveport, LA
$47,286
Pop. 187,593

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in New Orleans

Education

Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. New Orleans and the surrounding Louisiana 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 New Orleans may vary based on local industry and population growth.