Trades & Labor Salem, OR Pop. 175,535

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Salem, Oregon

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Salem, OR is $55,167 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 7.1% below the Oregon state average.

City Median
$55,167
vs State Avg
$-4,203
vs National
+$2,627
Cost of Living
102%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Salem by Experience

In Salem, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $37,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,800
+$1,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,700
+$2,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$84,000
+$4,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR

Percentile Salem
10th Percentile $35,700
25th Percentile $43,050
Median (50th) $55,167
75th Percentile $71,400
90th Percentile $88,200

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other Oregon Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Salem

Education

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