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Milwaukee County, WI · Operating Engineer
Operating Engineer prevailing wage in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
$83.76an hour, base wage + fringe benefits (our sum)
$55.21 base wage + $28.55 fringe benefits
POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR · ENGI0139-001
$72.27an hour, base wage + fringe benefits (our sum)
$44.92 base wage + $27.35 fringe benefits
OPERATOR: POWER EQUIPMENT (BACKHOE/EXCAVATOR (UNDER 130,000 LBS.), BULLDOZER; ROLLER) · ENGI0139-009
$70.62an hour, base wage + fringe benefits (our sum)
$40.32 base wage + $30.30 fringe benefits
POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 6 OFF-ROAD MATERIAL HAULER WITH OR WITHOUT EJECTOR. HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOUR · ENGI0139-005
$83.76an hour, base wage + fringe benefits (our sum)
$55.21 base wage + $28.55 fringe benefits
POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR · ENGI0139-001
On federally funded or assisted building construction in Milwaukee County, an operating engineer must be paid at least $83.76 an hour: a $55.21 base wage plus $28.55 in fringe benefits, under wage determination WI20260001 (modification 1). DOL prints no total, so $83.76 is our sum of the two.
Wage determination WI20260001, modification 1, published May 18, 2026, for building construction; rate identifier ENGI0139-001 (June 1, 2025). Checked against sam.gov on October 25, 2026.
On federally funded or assisted residential construction in Milwaukee County, an operating engineer must be paid at least $72.27 an hour: a $44.92 base wage plus $27.35 in fringe benefits, under wage determination WI20260027 (modification 1). DOL prints no total, so $72.27 is our sum of the two.
Wage determination WI20260027, modification 1, published May 18, 2026, for residential construction; rate identifier ENGI0139-009 (June 1, 2025). Checked against sam.gov on October 25, 2026.
On federally funded or assisted highway construction in Milwaukee County, an operating engineer must be paid at least $70.62 an hour: a $40.32 base wage plus $30.30 in fringe benefits, under wage determination WI20260010 (modification 1). DOL prints no total, so $70.62 is our sum of the two.
Wage determination WI20260010, modification 1, published May 18, 2026, for highway construction; rate identifier ENGI0139-005 (June 1, 2025). Checked against sam.gov on October 25, 2026.
On federally funded or assisted heavy construction in Milwaukee County, an operating engineer must be paid at least $83.76 an hour: a $55.21 base wage plus $28.55 in fringe benefits, under wage determination WI20260015 (modification 1). DOL prints no total, so $83.76 is our sum of the two.
Wage determination WI20260015, modification 1, published May 18, 2026, for heavy construction; rate identifier ENGI0139-001 (June 1, 2025). Checked against sam.gov on October 25, 2026.
Davis-Bacon is the only prevailing wage here (federally funded or assisted work). Wisconsin repealed its local law from January 1, 2017 and its state law for projects bid after September 23, 2017 (2017 Act 59; WisDOT).
DOL lists 25 operating engineer rates for Milwaukee County, from $34.00 to $83.76 an hour. See all of them.
Base wage and fringe benefits: $55.21 + $28.55
The base wage is the taxable hourly wage. DOL prints the fringe benefits as one hourly figure, not itemized; it can go to health, pension, vacation and training plans, or be paid as cash where the state allows.
| Base wage (taxable) | $55.21 |
| Fringe benefits (one figure, not itemized) | $28.55 |
| Base + fringe benefits (our sum; DOL prints no total) | $83.76 |
Base wage and fringe benefits: $44.92 + $27.35
The base wage is the taxable hourly wage. DOL prints the fringe benefits as one hourly figure, not itemized; it can go to health, pension, vacation and training plans, or be paid as cash where the state allows.
| Base wage (taxable) | $44.92 |
| Fringe benefits (one figure, not itemized) | $27.35 |
| Base + fringe benefits (our sum; DOL prints no total) | $72.27 |
Base wage and fringe benefits: $40.32 + $30.30
The base wage is the taxable hourly wage. DOL prints the fringe benefits as one hourly figure, not itemized; it can go to health, pension, vacation and training plans, or be paid as cash where the state allows.
| Base wage (taxable) | $40.32 |
| Fringe benefits (one figure, not itemized) | $30.30 |
| Base + fringe benefits (our sum; DOL prints no total) | $70.62 |
Base wage and fringe benefits: $55.21 + $28.55
The base wage is the taxable hourly wage. DOL prints the fringe benefits as one hourly figure, not itemized; it can go to health, pension, vacation and training plans, or be paid as cash where the state allows.
| Base wage (taxable) | $55.21 |
| Fringe benefits (one figure, not itemized) | $28.55 |
| Base + fringe benefits (our sum; DOL prints no total) | $83.76 |
When does this rate change?
- A contract keeps the wage determination in its bid documents. Modifications published before bid opening apply to it, though one published less than 10 days before can be left out if the agency finds there isn't time to tell bidders (29 CFR 1.6(c)).
- DOL changes a WD by publishing a numbered modification on SAM.gov. This page reads the modification named in the Source line; the Wisconsin change log lists what each one changed.
Every operating engineer rate in Milwaukee County
As DOL lists them. The highlighted row is the one this page leads with.
| Classification | Base wage | Fringe benefits | Total rate | WD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 6 TAMPERS - COMPACTORS (RIDING TYPE); ASSISTANT ENGINEER; A-FRAMES AND WINCH TRUCKS; CONCRETE AUTO BREAKER; HYDROHAMMERS (SMALL); BROOMS AND SWEEPERS; HOIST (TUGGERS UNDER 5 TONS); BOATS (TUG, SAFETY, WORK BARGES, LAUNCH); SHOULDERING MACHINE OPERATOR; PRESTRESS MACHINES; SCREED OPERATOR; STONE CRUSHERS AND SCREENING PLANTS; SCREED OPERATORS (MILLING MACHINE), FARM OR INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR MOUNTED EQUIPMENT; POST HOLE DIGGER; FIREMAN (ASPHALT PLANTS); AIR COMPRESSORS OVER 400 CFM; GENERATORS, OVER 150 KW; AUGERS (VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL); AIR, ELECTRIC, HYDRAULIC JACKS (SLIPFORM); SKID STEER LOADERS (WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS); BOILER OPERATORS (TEMPORARY HEAT); REFRIGERATION PLANT/FREEZE MACHINES; POWER PACK VIBRATORY/ULTRA SOUND DRIVERS AND EXTRACTORS; WELDING MACHINES; HEATERS (MECHANICAL); PUMPS; WINCHES (SMALL ELECTRIC); OILER AND GREASER; ROTARY DRILL TENDER; CONVEYOR; FORKLIFTS/TELEHANDLER 8000 LBS & UNDER; ELEVATORS: AUTOMATIC HOISTS; PUMPS (WELL POINTS); COMBINATION SMALL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURBuildingENGI0139-001 | $43.59 | $28.55 | $72.14 | WI20260001 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 5 BACKFILLER; CONCRETE AUTO BREAKER (LARGE); CONCRETE FINISHING MACHINES (ROAD TYPE); RUBBER TIRED ROLLER; CONCRETE BATCH HOPPER; CONCRETE CONVEYOR SYSTEMS; GROUT PUMPS; CONCRETE MIXERS (14S OR OVER); SCREW TYPE PUMPS AND GYPSUM PUMPS; TRACTOR, BULLDOZER, END LOADER (UNDER 40 HP); TRENCHER (CHAIN TYPE, BUCKET UNDER 8 INCH); INDUSTRIAL LOCOMOTIVES; ROLLERS UNDER 5 TONS; STUMP GRINDER/CHIPPER (LARGE); TIMBER EQUIPMENT; FIREMEN (PILE DRIVERS AND DERRICKS); PERSONNEL HOIST, TELEHANDLER OVER 8000 LBS; ROBOTIC TOOL CARRIER WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURBuildingENGI0139-001 | $48.74 | $28.55 | $77.29 | WI20260001 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 3 BACKHOE (EXCAVATOR) UNDER 130,000 LBS;SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANE 4000 LBS & UNDER LIFTING CAPACITY;TRAVELING CRANE (BRIDGE TYPE); SKID RIGS; DREDGE OPERATOR; MECHANIC; CONCRETE PAVER (OVER 27E); CONCRETE SPREADER AND DISTRIBUTOR; FORKLIFT/ TELEHANDLER (MACHINERY- MOVING / STEEL ERECTION); HYDRO BLASTER, 10,000 PSI AND OVER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURBuildingENGI0139-001 | $54.21 | $28.55 | $82.76 | WI20260001 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 2 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF 100 TONS OR LESS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES PORTABLE TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADSAND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 175 FEET OR LESS; BACKHOES (EXCAVATORS) 130,000 LBS AND OVER; CAISSON RIGS; PILE DRIVERS; BORING MACHINES (VERTICAL OR HORIZONTAL), VERSI-LIFT, TRI-LIFT, GANTRY 20,000 LBS & OVER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURBuildingENGI0139-001 | $54.71 | $28.55 | $83.26 | WI20260001 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURBuildingENGI0139-001 | $55.21 | $28.55 | $83.76 | WI20260001 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 6 OFF-ROAD MATERIAL HAULER WITH OR WITHOUT EJECTOR. HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $40.32 | $30.30 | $70.62 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 5 AIR COMPRESSOR; POWER PACK; VIBRATOR HAMMER AND EXTRACTOR; HEAVY EQUIPMENT, LEADMAN; TANK CAR HEATERS; STUMP CHIPPER; CURB MACHINE OPERATOR; CONCRETE PROPORTIONING PLANTS; GENERATORS; MUDJACK OPERATOR; ROCK BREAKER; CRUSHER OR SCREENING PLANT; SCREED (MILLING MACHINE); AUTOMATIC BELT CONVEYOR AND SURGE BIN; PUG MILL OPERATOR; OILER, PUMP (OVER 3 INCHES); DRILLING MACHINE TENDER, DAY LIGHT MACHINE HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $46.22 | $30.30 | $76.52 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 4 GREASER, ROLLER STEEL (5 TONS OR LESS); ROLLER (PNEUMATIC TIRED) - SELF PROPELLED; TRACTOR (MOUNTED OR TOWED COMPACTORS & LIGHT EQUIPMENT); SHOULDERING MACHINE; SELF- PROPELLED CHIP SPREADER; CONCRETE SPREADER; FINISHING MACHINE; MECHANICAL FLOAT; CURING MACHINE; POWER SUBGRADER; JOINT SAWER (MULTIPLE BLADE) BELTING MACHINE; BURLAP MACHINE; TEXTURING MACHINE; TRACTOR ENDLOADER (RUBBER TIRED) - LIGHT; JEEP DIGGER; FORKLIFT; MULCHER; LAUNCH OPERATOR; FIREMAN, ENVIRONMENTAL BURNER HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $46.51 | $30.30 | $76.81 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 3 MECHANIC OR WELDER - HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT; CRANES WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF 25 TONS OR UNDER; CONCRETE BREAKER (MANUAL OR REMOTE); VIBRATORY/SONIC CONCRETE BREAKER; CONCRETE LASER SCREED; CONCRETE SLIPFORM PAVER; CONCRETE BATCH PLANT OPERATOR; CONCRETE PVT. SPREADER - HEAVY DUTY (RUBBER TIRED); CONCRETE SPREADER & DISTRIBUTOR; AUTOMATIC SUBGRADER (CONCRETE); CONCRETE GRINDER & PLANING MACHINE; CONCRETE SLIPFORM CURB & GUTTER MACHINE; SLIPFORM CONCRETE PLACER; TUBE FINISHER; HYDRO BLASTER (10,000 PSI & OVER); BRIDGE PAVER; CONCRETE CONVEYOR SYSTEM; CONCRETE PUMP; ROTEC TYPE CONVEYOR; STABILIZING MIXER (SELF-PROPELLED); SHOULDER WIDENER; ASPHALT PLANT ENGINEER; BITUMINIOUS PAVER; BUMP CUTTER & GROOVING MACHINE; MILLING MACHINE; SCREED (BITUMINOUS PAVER); ASPHALT HEATER, PLANER & SCARIFIER; BACKHOES (EXCAVATORS) WEIGHING UNDER 130,000 LBS; GRADER OR MOTOR PATROL; TRACTOR (SCRAPER, DOZER, PUSHER, LOADER); SCRAPER - RUBBER TIRED (SINGLE OR TWIN ENGINE); ENDLOADER; HYDRAULIC BACKHOE (TRACTOR TYPE); TRENCHING MACHINE; SKID RIGS; TRACTOR, SIDE BOOM (HEAVY); DRILLING OR BORING MACHINE (MECHANICAL HEAVY); ROLLER OVER 5 TONS; PERCUSSION OR ROTARY DRILLING MACHINE; AIR TRACK; BLASTER; LOADING MACHINE (CONVEYOR); TUGGER; BOATMEN; WINCHES & A-FRAMES; POST DRIVER; MATERIAL HOIST. HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $46.77 | $30.30 | $77.07 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR GROUP 2 CRANES, TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF 100 TONS OR LESS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIBS LENGTHS MEASURING 175 FEET OR UNDER AND BACKHOES (EXCAVATORS) WEIGHING 130,000 LBS AND OVER; CAISSON RIGS; PILE DRIVER; DREDGE OPERATOR; DREDGE ENGINEER; BOAT PILOT. HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $47.87 | $30.30 | $78.17 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER. HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION - $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION - $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION - $1.00 PER HOURHighwayENGI0139-005 | $48.37 | $30.30 | $78.67 | WI20260010 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 6 TAMPERS - COMPACTORS (RIDING TYPE); ASSISTANT ENGINEER; A-FRAMES AND WINCH TRUCKS; CONCRETE AUTO BREAKER; HYDROHAMMERS (SMALL); BROOMS AND SWEEPERS; HOIST (TUGGERS UNDER 5 TONS); BOATS (TUG, SAFETY, WORK BARGES, LAUNCH); SHOULDERING MACHINE OPERATOR; PRESTRESS MACHINES; SCREED OPERATOR; STONE CRUSHERS AND SCREENING PLANTS; SCREED OPERATORS (MILLING MACHINE), FARM OR INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR MOUNTED EQUIPMENT; POST HOLE DIGGER; FIREMAN (ASPHALT PLANTS); AIR COMPRESSORS OVER 400 CFM; GENERATORS, OVER 150 KW; AUGERS (VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL); AIR, ELECTRIC, HYDRAULIC JACKS (SLIPFORM); SKID STEER LOADERS (WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS); BOILER OPERATORS (TEMPORARY HEAT); REFRIGERATION PLANT/FREEZE MACHINES; POWER PACK VIBRATORY/ULTRA SOUND DRIVERS AND EXTRACTORS; WELDING MACHINES; HEATERS (MECHANICAL); PUMPS; WINCHES (SMALL ELECTRIC); OILER AND GREASER; ROTARY DRILL TENDER; CONVEYOR; FORKLIFTS/TELEHANDLER 8000 LBS & UNDER; ELEVATORS: AUTOMATIC HOISTS; PUMPS (WELL POINTS); COMBINATION SMALL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-001 | $43.59 | $28.55 | $72.14 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 5 BACKFILLER; CONCRETE AUTO BREAKER (LARGE); CONCRETE FINISHING MACHINES (ROAD TYPE); RUBBER TIRED ROLLER; CONCRETE BATCH HOPPER; CONCRETE CONVEYOR SYSTEMS; GROUT PUMPS; CONCRETE MIXERS (14S OR OVER); SCREW TYPE PUMPS AND GYPSUM PUMPS; TRACTOR, BULLDOZER, END LOADER (UNDER 40 HP); TRENCHER (CHAIN TYPE, BUCKET UNDER 8 INCH); INDUSTRIAL LOCOMOTIVES; ROLLERS UNDER 5 TONS; STUMP GRINDER/CHIPPER (LARGE); TIMBER EQUIPMENT; FIREMEN (PILE DRIVERS AND DERRICKS); PERSONNEL HOIST, TELEHANDLER OVER 8000 LBS; ROBOTIC TOOL CARRIER WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-001 | $48.74 | $28.55 | $77.29 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 3 BACKHOE (EXCAVATOR) UNDER 130,000 LBS;SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANE 4000 LBS & UNDER LIFTING CAPACITY;TRAVELING CRANE (BRIDGE TYPE); SKID RIGS; DREDGE OPERATOR; MECHANIC; CONCRETE PAVER (OVER 27E); CONCRETE SPREADER AND DISTRIBUTOR; FORKLIFT/ TELEHANDLER (MACHINERY- MOVING / STEEL ERECTION); HYDRO BLASTER, 10,000 PSI AND OVER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-001 | $54.21 | $28.55 | $82.76 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 2 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF 100 TONS OR LESS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES PORTABLE TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADSAND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 175 FEET OR LESS; BACKHOES (EXCAVATORS) 130,000 LBS AND OVER; CAISSON RIGS; PILE DRIVERS; BORING MACHINES (VERTICAL OR HORIZONTAL), VERSI-LIFT, TRI-LIFT, GANTRY 20,000 LBS & OVER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-001 | $54.71 | $28.55 | $83.26 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-001 | $55.21 | $28.55 | $83.76 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 6 SHOULDERING MACHINE OPERATOR; FARM OR INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR MOUNTED EQUIPMENT; POST HOLE DIGGER; AUGER (VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL); SKID STEER LOADER WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS; ROBOTIC TOOL CARRIER WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS; POWER PACK VIBRATORY/ULTRA SOUND DRIVER AND EXTRACTOR; FIREMAN (ASPHALT PLANTS); SCREED OPERATOR; STONE CRUSHERS AND SCREENING PLANTS; AIR, ELECTRIC, HYDRAULIC JACKS (SLIP FORM); PRESTRESS MACHINES; AIR COMPRESSOR, 400 CFM OR OVER; REFRIGERATION PLANT/FREESE MACHINE; BOILER OPERATORS (TEMPORARY HEAT); FORKLIFTS; WELDING MACHINES; GENERATORS; PUMPS OVER 3"; HEATERS, MECHANICAL; COMBINATION SMALL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR; WINCHES, SMALL ELECTRIC; OILER; GREASER; ROTARY DRILL TENDER; CONVEYOR; ELEVATOR OPERATOR. (REMAINING COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-003 | $41.60 | $27.89 | $69.49 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 5 TRACTOR, BULLDOZER, OR ENDLOADER (UNDER 40 HP); TAMPERS -COMPACTORS, RIDING TYPE; STUMP CHIPPER, LARGE; ROLLER, RUBBER TIRE; BACKFILLER; TRENCHER, CHAIN TYPE (BUCKET UNDER 8 INCH); CONCRETE AUTO BREAKER, LARGE; CONCRETE FINISHING MACHINE (ROAD TYPE); CONCRETE BATCH HOPPER; CONCRETE CONVEYOR SYSTEMS; CONCRETE MIXERS, 14S OR OVER; PUMPS, SCREW TYPE AND GYPSUM); HYDROHAMMERS, SMALL; BROOMS AND SWEEEPRS; LIFT SLAB MACHINE; ROLLER UNDER 5 TONS; INDUSTRIAL LOCOMOTIVES; FIREMAN (PILE DRIVERS AND DERRICKS); PUMPS (WELL POINTS); HOISTS, AUTOMATIC; A-FRAMES AND WINCH TRUCKS; HOISTS (TUGGERS); BOATS (TUG, SAFETY, WORK BARGES AND LAUNCHES); ASSISTANT ENGINEER. (REMAINING COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-003 | $43.13 | $27.89 | $71.02 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 3 BACKHOES (EXCAVATORS) WEIGHING UNDER 130,000 LBS; TRAVELLING CRANE (BRIDGE TYPE); MILLING MACHINE; CONCRETE PAVER OVER 27 E; CONCRETE SPREADER AND DISTRIBUTOR; CONCRETE LASER SCREED; CONCRETE GRINDER AND PLANING MACHINE; SLIPFORM CURB AND GUTTER MACHINE; BORING MACHINE (DIRECTIONAL); DREDGE OPERATOR; SKID RIGS; OVER 46 METER CONCRETE PUMP. (REMAINING COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-003 | $45.73 | $27.89 | $73.62 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 2 BACKHOES WEIGHING 130,00 LBS AND OVER; CRANES, TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF 100 TONS OR LESS; CRANES, TOWER CRANES, AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS 175 FT OR LESS; CAISSON RIGS; PILE DRIVER. (REMAINING COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-003 | $49.28 | $27.89 | $77.17 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR WITHOUT ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; CRANES, TOWER CRANES, AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS AND/OR JIB LENGTHS 176 FT OR LONGER. (REMAINING COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOURHeavyENGI0139-003 | $50.53 | $27.89 | $78.42 | WI20260015 Mod 1 |
| OPERATOR: POWER EQUIPMENT (BACKHOE/EXCAVATOR (UNDER 130,000 LBS.), BULLDOZER; ROLLER)ResidentialENGI0139-009 | $44.92 | $27.35 | $72.27 | WI20260027 Mod 1 |
| OPERATOR: POWER EQUIPMENT (BACKHOE/EXCAVATOR (130,000 LBS. AND OVER))ResidentialENGI0139-009 | $45.67 | $27.35 | $73.02 | WI20260027 Mod 1 |
| OPERATOR: LOADERResidentialSUWI2012-011 | $25.70 | $9.58 | $35.28 | WI20260027 Mod 1 |
| OPERATOR: BOBCAT/SKID STEER/SKID LOADERResidentialSUWI2012-011 | $24.95 | $9.05 | $34.00 | WI20260027 Mod 1 |
How Milwaukee County compares
The main operating engineer rate in every county that has one, and how the pay splits here and nearby. All bars use the same scale.
Every county in Wisconsin
Wage and fringe benefits, nearby
- Milwaukee Countybase $55.21$83.76
- Waukesha Countybase $55.21$83.76
- Racine Countybase $55.21$83.76
- Walworth Countybase $23.36$27.97
Operating Engineer rates in nearby counties
Current DOL rates. Davis-Bacon rates are set for groups of counties, so neighbours often share them; the county where the work is done decides.
| County | Classification | Base wage | Total rate | vs Milwaukee County |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | |
| Waukesha County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | same |
| Racine County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | same |
| Ozaukee County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | same |
| Washington County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | same |
| Kenosha County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: GROUP 1 CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH OR W/O ATTACHMENTS WITH A LIFTING CAPACITY OF OVER 100 TONS; OR CRANES, TOWER CRANES, PEDESTAL TOWER CRANES AND DERRICKS WITH BOOM, LEADS, AND/OR JIB LENGTHS MEASURING 176 FEET OR LONGER; SELF-ERECTING TOWER CRANES OVER 4000 LBS LIFTING CAPACITY; ALL CRANES WITH BOOM DOLLIES; BORING MACHINES (DIRECTIONAL); MASTER MECHANIC. $0.50 ADDITIONAL PER HOUR PER 100 TONS OR 100 FT OF BOOM OVER 200 FT OR LIFTING CAPACITY OF CRANE OVER 200 TONS TO A MAXIMUM OF 300 TONS OR 300 FT. THEREAFTER AN INCREASE OF $0.01 PER FT OR TON, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. (KENOSHA, MILWAUKEE, OZAUKEE, RACINE, WASHINGTON, AND WAUKESHA COUNTIES) HAZARDOUS WASTE PREMIUMS: EPA LEVEL "A" PROTECTION: $3.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "B" PROTECTION: $2.00 PER HOUR EPA LEVEL "C" PROTECTION: $1.00 PER HOUR | $55.21 | $83.76 | same |
| Walworth County | POWER EQUIPMENT OPERATOR (FRONT END LOADER) | $23.36 | $27.97 | −$55.79 |
Wisconsin operating engineer prevailing wage by county, with a map
More from DOL on this rate
- DOL wage determination
- SAM.gov wage determinations
- Davis-Bacon determinations list journeyworker rates. Apprentices in a program registered with DOL or a recognized state agency can be paid the program's percentage of the rate, within its ratio; anyone else gets the full rate (29 CFR 5.5(a)(4)).
Are you being paid this rate?
Add your base pay to the fringe your employer pays for you, in cash or into plans, and compare the sum with the total. The Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division takes complaints: 1-866-487-9243, or dol.gov/agencies/whd/contact/complaints.
Source
U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division (DOL), wage determination WI20260001 Mod 1, published May 18, 2026: sam.gov/wage-determination/WI20260001/1
We read every active Wisconsin Davis-Bacon wage determination from SAM.gov's own data and check every number with a second, independent read of the same file. DOL prints no total; ours is base plus fringe. How we check · Download Milwaukee County as CSV · Report an error