Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary in Boston, MA-NH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH

Median annual salary $73,680 +25.5% vs national
Median hourly $35.42
10th percentile $51,290
90th percentile $126,020
Employed locally 6,740
National median $58,710

Compare Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary & buying power

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Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
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Boston, MA-NH
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    In Boston, MA-NH, Operating Engineers and other Construction Equipment Operators earn a median annual salary of $73,680, which is significantly higher than the national median of $58,710 for this occupation. This local salary reflects well above the area’s median household income of $112,484, indicating that these workers typically earn more individually compared to the average household earnings in their region. Despite the relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.70%, which suggests a competitive job market, these professionals maintain higher earning potential than many other occupations within the same geographic location.

    For entry-level Operating Engineers and Construction Equipment Operators in Boston, MA-NH, salaries start at around $51,290 annually, marking the 10th percentile. As workers gain experience, their earnings increase significantly, with those in the 25th percentile earning approximately $60,470 per year. The progression continues as experienced operators can earn up to $108,300 (75th percentile) or even $126,020 (90th percentile). This substantial salary difference is driven by factors such as skill proficiency, years of experience, and certifications that enhance an operator's ability to manage more complex equipment or take on supervisory roles. The demand for skilled operators in a booming construction sector further amplifies the earning potential with increased expertise.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $51,290
    25th
    $60,470
    50th (median)
    $73,680
    75th
    $108,300
    90th
    $126,020

    Boston economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.70% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $112,484 2023 • Census ACS
    Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary vs area income 66% Median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary is 34% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Boston, MA-NH is $35.42, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $60.51 or more per hour.

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

    The median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary in Boston, MA-NH is 25.5% 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 Boston?

    Entry-level Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (10th percentile) earn around $51,290 per year in Boston, MA-NH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $60,470.