Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Salary in Los Angeles, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA

Median annual salary $93,220 +58.8% vs national
Median hourly $44.82
10th percentile $52,920
90th percentile $129,130
Employed locally 8,430
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
in
Los Angeles, CA
vs

    In Los Angeles, CA, Operating Engineers and other Construction Equipment Operators earn a median annual salary of $93,220, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $58,710. This salary aligns closely with the local area's median household income, which stands at $93,525, indicating that individuals in this field typically earn enough to match or slightly exceed what an average household earns in the region. The comparison highlights a competitive earning potential within the construction sector for those holding these positions, reflecting both demand and skill level required in Los Angeles' dynamic job market.

    Wage differences between entry-level and experienced Operating Engineers are driven by factors such as expertise, years of service, and specialization skills. At the lower end of the salary spectrum, workers at the 10th percentile earn around $52,920 annually, while those at the 25th percentile make approximately $66,020, indicating that even less experienced operators can achieve a comfortable income. Conversely, highly skilled or specialized professionals in this field might earn significantly more, with salaries reaching up to $123,760 for those in the 75th percentile and as high as $129,130 at the 90th percentile. This substantial variance underscores the impact of experience and skill acquisition on earning potential within the industry.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $52,920
    25th
    $66,020
    50th (median)
    $93,220
    75th
    $123,760
    90th
    $129,130

    Los Angeles economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $93,525 2023 • Census ACS
    Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary vs area income 100% Median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary is 0% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Los Angeles, CA is $44.82, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $62.85 or more per hour.

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

    The median Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary in Los Angeles, CA is 58.8% 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 Los Angeles?

    Entry-level Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (10th percentile) earn around $52,920 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $66,020.