The top 5 paying industries for Operator in United States are Energy, Mining & Utilities with a median total pay of $77,113, Government & Public Administration with a median total pay of $66,096, Telecommunications with a median total pay of $63,205, Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services with a median total pay of $62,565, and Healthcare with a median total pay of $56,540.
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Last updated Apr 10, 202511K Salaries submitted
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Glassdoor Economist Pay Overview
What is the pay outlook for Operations?
Operations roles are critical as employers navigate an increasingly global business environment. The rise of globalization and e-commerce mean supply chains and inventory management are increasingly important. The educational requirements for operations are increasing as data and technology become essential for managing complex operations. As demand for these skills and workers grows, pay should increase as well.
Operator salary in US
A Operator salary range in US can vary based on important factors such as education, skills, certifications, and years of experience. A Operator in US can expect to see an entry level salary range of $29,307 to $65,357 per year, based on 16 salary contributions. At the highest seniority level, an experienced Operator in US can make a salary range of $40,463 to $89,969 with at least 5 years of experience, based on 11 salary contributions. The top 3 companies in US where a Operator gets the highest compensation are Exelon Corporation, Bloomberg L.P. and Clean Harbors, Inc.. Bigger companies typically pay 31.33% less than smaller companies for a Operator.
Frequently asked questions about Operator salaries
The average salary for Operator is $56,914 per year or $27 per hour, with top earners making up to $85,293 (90th percentile). Typically, pay ranges from $46,251 (25th percentile) to $70,542 (75th percentile) annually. Salary estimates are based on 10994 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by Operator employees.
The highest salary for Operator is $70,542 per year, $5,879 per month or $34 per hour.
The lowest salary for Operator is $46,251 per year, $3,854 per month or $22 per hour.
The salary trajectory of Operator ranges between locations and employers. The salary starts at $52,695 per year (estimate) and goes up to $176,783 per year (estimate) for the highest level of seniority.
Operators are paid salaries similar to that of other skilled workers including millwrights, welders, cutters, plumbers, tool makers, and medical equipment repairers. Operators who work in the manufacturing or construction sectors generally earn the highest pay. Operators’ pay generally raises with seniority and experience. Many manufacturing firms have two to three shifts varying between eight to twelve hours in length. This schedule allows them to produce around the clock. Operators can increase their pay by working multiple shifts.
67% of operators feel good about their annual salaries, according to anonymous employee ratings. Professional training, industry knowledge and skill, and a respectable amount of experience all impact operator salary. Through bonuses and profit sharing, there's also the potential to earn an extra $6,706.44 annually.
Operator salary generally lands between $38,412.09 and $85,292.69, with $50,207.75 being the average compensation for operators of all experience levels. Based on the operator career path, experience, location, and industry are often the biggest factors for salary. Once you've mastered in-demand skills and shown employers your value, you may be eligible to apply for senior-level operator roles.
Your role, and therefore your salary as an operator, will vary widely based on the equipment you operate and the setting you work in. Rapid-paced outdoor lumber yards operate much differently than handling equipment in corporate or luxury settings, for example, but they feature more flexible scheduling and travel than 9 to 5 positions, which often pay more. Advance in the industry that interests you and matches your skill set, and grow from there. As a professional, you should stay up-to-date with technology and continuously improve your operating skills over time. Licenses, certifications, and a commercial driver's license (CDL) all impact the income you make in your chosen career path.
Operator roles have more to offer than salary. You can work signing and annual bonuses, as well as valuable perks, such as commuter benefits, car allowances, and vacation time, into the deal. You'll have more bargaining power with more experience in your chosen industry, but negotiating is also about what you're willing to put into the role. Whether you're responding to a job offer or are ready for a raise, ask what's required of you at this salary range and experience level, and how you can work for that higher operator pay. Taking on more or higher-level tasks and working in benefits can help both parties reach a great deal.
