Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Tennessee (2025)
Heavy Equipment Operators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $48,700 per year, or $23.40/hr. The state has roughly 3,964 heavy equipment operator jobs with a projected growth rate of 5.0% over the next decade.
Heavy Equipment Operator Pay by Experience Level in Tennessee
Where you are in your career makes a big difference. Apprentices in Tennessee start lower but can expect significant raises as they move toward journeyman and master credentials.
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $14.04/hr | $29,200/yr |
| Journeyman | $23.40/hr | $48,700/yr |
| Master | $30.42/hr | $63,300/yr |
| Foreman | $32.76/hr | $68,100/yr |
Apprentice
Hourly
$14.04
Annual
$29,200
Journeyman
Hourly
$23.40
Annual
$48,700
Master
Hourly
$30.42
Annual
$63,300
Foreman
Hourly
$32.76
Annual
$68,100
Union vs. Non-Union Heavy Equipment Operator Pay in Tennessee
Union membership can have a major impact on your take-home pay in Tennessee. The numbers below compare average hourly rates for union and non-union heavy equipment operators in the state.
Union vs. Non-Union Pay
Average hourly rate for heavy equipment operators
Union heavy equipment operators earn $6.55/hr more (28.9% premium)
Highest-Paying Cities for Heavy Equipment Operators in Tennessee
Metro areas tend to pay more due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Here are the top-paying cities for heavy equipment operators in Tennessee.
Tennessee vs. National Average
How does Tennessee stack up against the rest of the country? Here is a side-by-side look at average hourly pay for heavy equipment operators.
Tennessee vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Tennessee pays $2.60/hr less than the national average (-10.0%)
Overtime Earnings Potential
Many heavy equipment operators in Tennessee earn well above their base salary thanks to overtime. At the median rate of $23.40/hr, overtime pay (1.5x) works out to roughly $35.10/hr. Working just 10 hours of OT per week at that rate adds about $18,300 to your annual income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Heavy Equipment Operator salaries in Tennessee vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level heavy equipment operators typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level heavy equipment operators in Tennessee typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union heavy equipment operators earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified heavy equipment operator depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Heavy Equipment Operator work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The Tennessee job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified heavy equipment operators have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a heavy equipment operator's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.
Major metropolitan areas in Tennessee tend to pay heavy equipment operators 5-15% above the state average due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Check our city-level salary data for specific figures in your area.
Sources & Methodology
Salary data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program. Data reflects May 2024 estimates, the most recent available. Figures represent base pay before overtime, bonuses, or benefits.