Trades & Labor Brookings, SD Pop. 24,194

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Brookings, South Dakota

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Brookings, SD is $45,184 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.

City Median
$45,184
vs State Avg
$-1,051
vs National
$-7,356
Cost of Living
86%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Brookings by Experience

In Brookings, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $30,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,960
$-5,040 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$46,440
$-7,560 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,800
$-11,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD

Percentile Brookings
10th Percentile $29,240
25th Percentile $35,260
Median (50th) $45,184
75th Percentile $58,480
90th Percentile $72,240

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other South Dakota Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Brookings

Education

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