Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $58,837 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $52,025 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $61,934 per year, Tennessee's Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators 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 $39,582–$51,902, while experienced Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss can command $79,622–$90,254.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators 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 Engineers and Equipment Operators salary in Tennessee?The average Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salary in Tennessee is $61,934 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $70,380.
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What city in Tennessee pays Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Operating Engineers and Equipment Operatorss 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 and Equipment Operatorss?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators employment.
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How does Tennessee Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salary compare to the US average?At $61,934/year, Tennessee Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $70,380/year.