As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Chief Operating Engineer in District of Columbia is $90,489 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $44.
However, a Chief Operating Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Chief Operating 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 a Chief Operating 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 |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Chief Operating Engineer | $86,289 |
| Intermediate Level Chief Operating Engineer | $86,675 |
| Senior Level Chief Operating Engineer | $88,607 |
| Specialist Level Chief Operating Engineer | $92,841 |
| Expert Level Chief Operating Engineer | $94,409 |
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 Chief Operating Engineers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Chief Operating Engineer roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 50% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 25% above the average. In contrast, Chief Operating Engineer positions in Retail & Wholesale or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Chief Operating Engineer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $113,111 | $54.0 | 25% |
| Energy & Utilities | $104,062 | $50.0 | 15% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $104,062 | $50.0 | 15% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $99,538 | $48.0 | 10% |
| Internet | $99,538 | $48.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Chief Operating 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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Chief Operating Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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