How Much Does an Equipment Operator I make?

Equipment Operator I made a median salary around $40,288 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $44,947 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $36,561. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Equipment Operator jobs in Maine

Equipment Operator

The Middlesex Corporation - Kittery, ME

Heavy Equipment Operator

Casella Waste Systems, Inc. - Old Town, ME

Heavy Equipment Operator

Probst Electric, Inc. - Bingham, ME

Heavy Equipment Operator

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. - Portland, ME

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Best-Paying Cities for Equipment Operator I

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Equipment Operator I profession are Eliot , Kittery , Kittery Point , York , York Beach .
Eliot, ME $43,062
Kittery, ME $43,062
Kittery Point, ME $43,062
York, ME $43,062
York Beach, ME $43,062

Best-Paying States for Equipment Operator I

The states and districts that pay Equipment Operator I the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $46,084) , California (around $45,670) , New Jersey (around $45,381) , Alaska (around $45,091) , and Massachusetts (around $45,049) .
District of Columbia $46,084
California $45,670
New Jersey $45,381
Alaska $45,091
Massachusetts $45,049

What is the Career Path of Equipment Operator I?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Equipment Operator I, the first career path typically progresses to Extrusion Operator, Sr..

The second career path typically starts with an Injection Molding Machine Operator II position , and then progresses to Injection Molding Machine Operator III.

The third career path typically starts with a Machine Operator II position , and then progresses to Machine Operator III.

Additionally, the fourth career path typically starts with a Machinist II position , and then progresses to Machinist III.

Frequently Asked Questions for Equipment Operator I

Q: What is the salary range of Equipment Operator I in Maine?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Equipment Operator I in Maine earned an average annual salary of $36,561 , while the highest-paid made $44,947.
Q: What is the salary for an Equipment Operator I in California?
A: Equipment Operator I employed in California earned an average salary of $45,670 in 2024.

Average Equipment Operator I Pay vs. Other Jobs

Equipment Operator I earned an average salary of $40,288 in 2024. Other jobs related to Equipment Operator I earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Heavy Equipment Operator I made $46,872 , Field Equipment Operator I made $63,957 , Construction Equipment Operator I and Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator I made $46,900 and $46,880 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Equipment Operator I

Heavy Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $46,872
Heavy Equipment Operator I operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator I identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator I requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Field Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $63,957
The Field Equipment Operator I reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, operate, and properly secure machinery. Sets up and operates a variety of oil, gas, or mining machines and equipment on designated sites. Being a Field Equipment Operator I routinely monitors and tests equipment for quality and safety in accordance with established procedures, guidelines, and regulations. Maintains equipment and troubleshoots technical issues as necessary. In addition, Field Equipment Operator I requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Being a Field Equipment Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Construction Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $46,900
The Construction Equipment Operator I prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Being a Construction Equipment Operator I may be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. In addition, Construction Equipment Operator I requires a high school diploma. May Require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Being a Construction Equipment Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
The Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator I prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Being an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator I may be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. In addition, Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator I requires a high school diploma. May Require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Being an Excavating and Construction Equipment Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Chemical Process Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $49,100
The Chemical Process Equipment Operator I operates equipment and monitors the production process to ensure efficient and safe output. Controls equipment and systems that process chemical substances and materials into products. Being a Chemical Process Equipment Operator I troubleshoots problems with equipment, respond to system notifications and makes required adjustments as needed. Follows standard operating procedures and performs in process quality checks to identify and resolve issues during processing. In addition, Chemical Process Equipment Operator I enters required production data and information into logs. May unload or move materials. Follows all procedures for safe material handling and required safety gear. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or team leader. Being a Chemical Process Equipment Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.