Trades & Labor Charleston, WV Pop. 48,006

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Charleston, West Virginia

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Charleston, WV is $47,286 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 4.7% above the West Virginia state average.

City Median
$47,286
vs State Avg
+$2,102
vs National
$-5,254
Cost of Living
88%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Charleston by Experience

In Charleston, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $32,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,400
$-3,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$48,600
$-5,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$72,000
$-8,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Charleston, WV

Percentile Charleston
10th Percentile $30,600
25th Percentile $36,900
Median (50th) $47,286
75th Percentile $61,200
90th Percentile $75,600

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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.