Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $82,767 | +12.0% | High |
| Aurora | $75,377 | +2.0% | High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $73,899 per year, Illinois's Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Illinois (index: 1.05) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Illinois can expect to earn $47,229–$61,929, while experienced Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss can command $95,004–$107,690.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Finance continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salary in Illinois?The average Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salary in Illinois is $73,899 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $70,380.
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What city in Illinois pays Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss the highest wages in Illinois due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Illinois a good state for Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators employment.
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How does Illinois Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salary compare to the US average?At $73,899/year, Illinois Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $70,380/year.