As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II in the United States is $51,100 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.
However, an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $56,500 | $4,708 | $1,087 | $27 |
| Average | $51,100 | $4,258 | $983 | $25 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,750 | $3,813 | $880 | $22 |
An Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $57,106. While startup companies pay approximate $48,306.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $48,306 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $51,089 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $55,144 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $57,106 |
Understanding how an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $56,500 | $4,708 | $1,087 | $27 |
| Average | $51,100 | $4,258 | $983 | $25 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,750 | $3,813 | $880 | $22 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Equipment Operator-Crane | $73,900 | 45% |
| Construction Equipment Operator III | $58,500 | 14% |
Salaries for an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $49,882 in 2023 to around $49,869 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 | View More |
| 2023 | $49,882 |
| 2024 | $50,195 |
| 2025 | $49,869 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Financial Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator II roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
Excavator operators can earn competitive salaries across various locations. The minimum salary is approximately $45,870, with a mid-range salary of about $53,540 and a maximum of $62,750. Cities like Denver, CO, and Flint, MI, offer some of the highest hourly rates, reflecting the demand and cost of living in those areas.
Yes, there is a shortage of heavy equipment operators. Approximately 45,700 openings for construction equipment operators are projected annually over the next decade. This demand arises from the need to replace workers who transition to other jobs or retire. The salary range for these positions typically falls between $45,870 and $62,750, with a median salary of $53,540.
Crane operators typically earn between $45,870 and $62,750 annually, with a median salary of $53,540. While some experienced operators may earn higher, reaching up to $100,000 is uncommon. Crane operators specialize in operating heavy machinery to lift and move large items, making their skills essential in construction and excavation projects.
The highest-paid position among heavy equipment operators is typically the Crane Operator, with salaries ranging from $45,000 to $69,000 per year. In comparison, Excavating and Construction Equipment Operators earn between $45,870 and $62,750 annually, with a mid-salary of $53,540. Other roles like Winch Truck Drivers can earn up to $72,000.
The best-paying states for Excavating and Construction Equipment Operators offer salaries significantly above the national average. While specific state salaries may vary, operators can expect a minimum salary of $45,870, a mid-range salary of $53,540, and a maximum salary of $62,750, reflecting the demand and skill level in this field.
The top pay for a heavy equipment operator typically reaches around $62,750 per year. For more experienced roles, such as a Senior Heavy Equipment Operator, salaries can go higher, but the standard range for operators generally falls between $45,870 and $62,750 annually.
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