Operating Engineer Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $54,657 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $48,329 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Operating Engineers. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $57,534 per year, Tennessee's Operating Engineer salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $36,018–$48,162, while experienced Operating Engineers can command $75,486–$86,206.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineer profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Operating Engineer salary in Tennessee?The average Operating Engineer salary in Tennessee is $57,534 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $65,380.
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What city in Tennessee pays Operating Engineers the most?Major metro areas typically pay Operating Engineers the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Operating Engineers?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineer employment.
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How does Tennessee Operating Engineer salary compare to the US average?At $57,534/year, Tennessee Operating Engineer salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $65,380/year.