As of February 01, 2026, the average salary for an Operator Engineer in District of Columbia is $119,747 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $58.
However, an Operator Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Operator Engineer'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 and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Operator Engineer'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Industria... Level Operator Engineer | $84,593 |
| Industria... Level Operator Engineer | $104,290 |
| Operator ... Level Operator Engineer | $122,151 |
| Industria... Level Operator Engineer | $136,559 |
| Industria... Level Operator Engineer | $160,870 |
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 Operator Engineers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how an Operator Engineer'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 February 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Operator Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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