Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary in Baltimore, MD

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD

Median annual salary $60,310 +2.7% vs national
Median hourly $29.00
10th percentile $44,450
90th percentile $77,900
Employed locally 3,360
National median $58,710

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Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
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Baltimore, MD
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    In Baltimore, MD, Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators earn a median annual salary of $60,310, which is slightly above the national median of $58,710. This position's median hourly rate stands at $29.00. When compared to the local area median household income of $97,300, it becomes evident that this occupation typically provides earnings that contribute significantly but do not fully match the broader household income levels in Baltimore. The salary range for these workers is broad, with a 10th percentile earning starting at approximately $44,450 and extending up to $77,900 at the 90th percentile. This suggests variability in earnings based on factors such as experience level, specific job roles, and regional demand.

    Entry-level Operating Engineers and Construction Equipment Operators in Baltimore tend to earn closer to the lower end of this spectrum, with salaries starting around the 10th percentile mark of $44,450. As these workers gain experience and skills, their earning potential increases significantly, reaching up to the 75th percentile at about $71,500. The most experienced individuals can achieve earnings in the upper echelons, close to or exceeding the 90th percentile of $77,900. This substantial wage progression from entry-level positions to seasoned professionals is largely driven by factors such as accumulated experience, proficiency with advanced machinery, and specialized training certifications that enhance job performance and efficiency on construction sites.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $44,450
    25th
    $48,160
    50th (median)
    $60,310
    75th
    $71,500
    90th
    $77,900

    Baltimore economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $97,300 2023 • Census ACS
    Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary vs area income 62% Median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary is 38% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators make per hour in Baltimore?

    The median hourly wage for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Baltimore, MD is $29.00, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $37.39 or more per hour.

    Is Baltimore above or below average for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salaries?

    The median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary in Baltimore, MD is 2.7% above the national median of $58,710. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Baltimore?

    Entry-level Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (10th percentile) earn around $44,450 per year in Baltimore, MD. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $48,160.