Trades & Labor Seattle, WA Pop. 737,015

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Seattle, Washington

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Seattle, WA is $79,861 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 27.7% above the Washington state average.

City Median
$79,861
vs State Avg
+$17,338
vs National
+$27,321
Cost of Living
148%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Seattle by Experience

In Seattle, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $54,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 148% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$54,720
+$18,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$82,080
+$28,080 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$121,600
+$41,600 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Seattle, WA

Percentile Seattle
10th Percentile $51,680
25th Percentile $62,320
Median (50th) $79,861
75th Percentile $103,360
90th Percentile $127,680

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other Washington Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Seattle

Education

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