Operating Engineer Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $143,902 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $137,403 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $159,685 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $171,754 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $100,267 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $113,265 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $134,618 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $100,267 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $131,833 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $129,976 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $118,835 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $109,551 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $143,902 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $109,551 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $103,981 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $113,265 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $106,766 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $137,403 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $148,544 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Operating Engineers. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $92,840 per year, California's Operating Engineer salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $58,121–$77,717, while experienced Operating Engineers can command $121,808–$139,106.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineer profession in California is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Operating Engineer salary in California?The average Operating Engineer salary in California is $92,840 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $65,380.
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What city in California pays Operating Engineers the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Operating Engineers the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Operating Engineers?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineer employment.
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How does California Operating Engineer salary compare to the US average?At $92,840/year, California Operating Engineer salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $65,380/year.