Trades & Labor Wheeling, WV Pop. 26,711

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Wheeling, West Virginia

The median heavy equipment operator salary in Wheeling, WV is $42,032 per year, which is 20% below the national median and 7% below the West Virginia state average.

City Median
$42,032
vs State Avg
$-3,152
vs National
$-10,508
Cost of Living
78%

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Wheeling by Experience

In Wheeling, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $28,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 78% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$28,800
$-7,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$43,200
$-10,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$64,000
$-16,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Wheeling, WV

Percentile Wheeling
10th Percentile $27,200
25th Percentile $32,800
Median (50th) $42,032
75th Percentile $54,400
90th Percentile $67,200

Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Other West Virginia Cities

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Wheeling

Education

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