Trades & Labor Vermont (VT) Rank #16 of 50

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Vermont

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Vermont is $53,065 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $52,540.

Median Salary
$53,065
vs National
+$525
State Rank
#16 of 50
Cost of Living
101%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary Overview in Vermont (2026)

Vermont ranks #16 out of 50 states for heavy equipment operator compensation. Vermont falls in the middle of the pack for heavy equipment operator pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $53,065 per year, heavy equipment operators in Vermont earn $525 more than the national median of $52,540.

Vermont's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning heavy equipment operator salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Vermont is significant: heavy equipment operators at the 10th percentile earn $34,340, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,840 — a $50,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Vermont for this role is Burlington, where the median reaches $57,794.

Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for heavy equipment operators across the country.

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Vermont by Experience

In Vermont, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $36,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,800 per year. The cost of living index in Vermont is 101% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,360
+$360 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,540
+$540 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$80,800
+$800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Vermont

Percentile VT Salary
10th Percentile $34,340
25th Percentile $41,410
Median (50th) $53,065
75th Percentile $68,680
90th Percentile $84,840

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary by City in Vermont

The largest employment areas for heavy equipment operators in Vermont include Burlington, Essex, South Burlington, and Colchester. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Vermont

Education

Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. Vermont has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Equipment OperationGPS/Grade ControlSafety ProceduresMechanical KnowledgeSpatial AwarenessCDL

Job Outlook in Vermont

Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Vermont's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Vermont

How much does a Heavy Equipment Operator make in Vermont? ▼
The median heavy equipment operator salary in Vermont is $53,065 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $52,540. Salaries range from $34,340 (10th percentile) to $84,840 (90th percentile).
How much does a Heavy Equipment Operator make per hour in Vermont? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $53,065, a heavy equipment operator in Vermont earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Vermont a good state for heavy equipment operators? ▼
Vermont ranks #16 out of 50 states for heavy equipment operator pay. The cost of living index is 101% of the national average. Entry-level heavy equipment operators earn $36,360, while senior professionals earn $80,800.
How does Vermont compare to other states for heavy equipment operator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for heavy equipment operators is Hawaii at $93,521. Vermont's median of $53,065 ranks #16 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Virginia ($54,642) and Delaware ($53,065).
What is the entry-level heavy equipment operator salary in Vermont? ▼
An entry-level heavy equipment operator in Vermont earns approximately $36,360 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $54,540. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $80,800.
What city in Vermont pays heavy equipment operators the most? ▼
Burlington is the highest paying city in Vermont for heavy equipment operators, with a median salary of $57,794. Other cities include Essex and South Burlington.