Operating Engineer Salary in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey · 28.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newark | $102,097 | +22.0% | High |
New Jersey is home to a strong job market for Operating Engineers. The state's key industries — Pharmaceuticals, Finance, Technology — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $83,686 per year, New Jersey's Operating Engineer salaries are 28.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in New Jersey (index: 1.28) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in New Jersey can expect to earn $52,390–$70,054, while experienced Operating Engineers can command $109,798–$125,390.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineer profession in New Jersey is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Pharmaceuticals continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
-
What is the average Operating Engineer salary in New Jersey?The average Operating Engineer salary in New Jersey is $83,686 per year in 2026, which is 28.0% above the national average of $65,380.
-
What city in New Jersey pays Operating Engineers the most?Major metro areas typically pay Operating Engineers the highest wages in New Jersey due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is New Jersey a good state for Operating Engineers?New Jersey has a strong job market with major industries in Pharmaceuticals, Finance, Technology. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineer employment.
-
How does New Jersey Operating Engineer salary compare to the US average?At $83,686/year, New Jersey Operating Engineer salaries are 28.0% higher than the national average of $65,380/year.