Trades & Labor Charleston, SC Pop. 150,227

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Charleston, South Carolina

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Charleston, SC is $52,540 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.

City Median
$52,540
vs State Avg
+$5,779
vs National
+$0
Cost of Living
100%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Charleston by Experience

In Charleston, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $36,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,000
+$0 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,000
+$0 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$80,000
+$0 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC

Percentile Charleston
10th Percentile $34,000
25th Percentile $41,000
Median (50th) $52,540
75th Percentile $68,000
90th Percentile $84,000

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other South Carolina Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Charleston

Education

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