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Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salary in the United States

How much does a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator make in the United States?

As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator in the United States is $47,461 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.

However, a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $66,886
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $39,259 to $57,629
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $31,792
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salaries

A Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator'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.

How Do Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $52,549.
  • California: $52,349.
  • Massachusetts: $51,652.

Top Paying Cities for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $59,862
  • San Francisco: $59,207
  • Oakland: $57,959

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $47,461. While startup companies pay approximate $47,461.

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $47,461
Growth Stage 51~500 $47,461
Established 501~5000 $47,461
Enterprise 5000+ $47,461

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator'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 August 01, 2026
$39,259
Average $47,461/year
$57,629
$3,272
Average $3,955/month
$4,802
$755
Average $913/week
$1,108
$19
Average $23/hour
$28
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $57,629 $4,802 $1,108 $28
Average $47,461 $3,955 $913 $23
25th Percentile $39,259 $3,272 $755 $19

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator Salary Growth & Career Path

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator, 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
Injection Molding Machine Operator III $56,658 19%
Machine Operator III $51,598 9%
Machinist III $65,768 39%
CNC Machine Operator III $62,731 32%

Most common benefits for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator

1. Where can a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator earn the most?

A Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator'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 Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator is $59,862.

2. What is the highest pay for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator?

The highest pay for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator is $66,886.

3. What is the lowest pay for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator?

The lowest pay for Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator is $31,792.

4. What are the responsibilities of Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operator?

Operates a mechanical machine to lay gravel, stone, and cold-mix asphalt on road surfaces. May require a high school diploma or its equivalent and 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Is familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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