As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a Computer Operator III in the United States is $68,021 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $33.
However, a Computer Operator III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Computer Operator III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Computer Operator III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Operator I | 0-1 years | $48,931 |
| Computer Operator II | 1-3 years | $61,305 |
| Computer Operator III | 3-5 years | $68,021 |
| Computer Operations Shift Supervisor | 5+ years | $91,566 |
| Computer Operations Supervisor | 5+ years | $109,377 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Computer Operator IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 6.58% |
| SOP | 3.39% |
| Data Processing | 2.77% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Telecommunications
|
$76,184 |
12%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$75,503 |
11%
|
|
Team Operations
|
$74,823 |
10%
|
|
Flexibility
|
$73,463 |
8%
|
|
Commitment
|
$73,463 |
8%
|
|
Triage
|
$73,463 |
8%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Computer Operator IIIs enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Computer Operator III with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $64,325 and $68,942).
Computer Operator III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.9% |
| High School | 32.7% |
| Associates | 32.2% |
| Bachelors | 28.9% |
| Masters | 5.2% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Computer Operator III'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.
Last Updated on March 01, 2026For a Computer Operator III, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Computer Operations Shift Supervisor role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $91,566 - a projected growth of 35% over your current level.
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Computer Operator III and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Computer Operator III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Computer Operator III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Computer Operator III is $85,795.
The highest pay for Computer Operator III is $85,746.
The lowest pay for Computer Operator III is $53,314.
Operates and monitors computer equipment. Uses established procedures to perform routine tasks to maintain required performance standards of computer equipment and its peripherals. Observes peripheral equipment and error messages displayed on the monitor of the terminal to identify faulty output or machine stoppage. May require an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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