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How much does a Chief Operating Officer make?

The average salary for a Chief Operating Officer is $166,308 per year in the US.

A Chief Operating Officer (COO) plays a crucial role in a company. They oversee daily operations and make sure everything runs smoothly. This important job often leads to a good salary. The average yearly salary for a COO is around $166,308. That means they earn a significant amount for their hard work.

COOs often earn more based on the company’s size and industry. They can make between $41,355 to over $387,500 a year. Here is a breakdown of the earnings:

  • 10% earn less than $72,823.
  • 25% earn between $72,823 to $104,290.
  • 50% earn between $104,290 to $167,226.
  • 75% earn between $167,226 to $261,629.
  • 90% earn less than $293,097.
  • 95% earn less than $324,565.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Chief Operating Officer?

Seattle leads the pack with an average Chief Operating Officer salary of over $243,000. The tech hubs of San Francisco and San Jose also boast strong salaries, around $225,000. Cities like Chicago and Boston offer competitive pay, with average salaries close to $220,000.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Chief Operating Officer jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $243,323 and Boston, MA with the lowest at $215,470.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $243,323
    In Seattle, leaders in tech and aerospace seek top-tier talent to guide their operations. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft value strong strategic planning and operational excellence. Seattle's dynamic business environment offers ample growth opportunities.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $241,053
    Los Angeles presents an exciting market for operational leaders. Entertainment and media giants, such as Warner Bros. and Disney, offer diverse roles. The city’s vibrant economy provides a fertile ground for operational innovation and leadership.
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  3. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $239,286
    Worcester is a hub for manufacturing and education. Companies like UMass Memorial Health and Raytheon Technologies value efficient operations. The area’s strong community ties and business networks make it a rewarding place to work.
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  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $231,724
    In Washington, DC, operational leaders work in an environment rich with government and non-profit organizations. Agencies like the World Bank and IMF offer unique challenges. The city’s influence on policy and its economic diversity create a stimulating workplace.
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  5. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $230,068
    San Diego’s favorable climate and thriving biotech scene attract operational talent. Companies like Illumina and Qualcomm rely on strong operational leadership. The city’s vibrant lifestyle complements its robust professional opportunities.
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  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $225,610
    San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, demands sharp operational skills. Tech companies like Intel and Cisco look for leaders who can drive efficiency and innovation. The area's fast-paced environment fosters professional growth.
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  7. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $225,607
    San Francisco’s tech-driven economy offers exciting opportunities for operational leaders. Companies like Salesforce and Slack seek professionals who can manage large-scale operations. The city’s culture of innovation provides a dynamic work setting.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in San Francisco, CA


  8. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $222,755
    Chicago’s diverse economy offers a wide range of operational leadership roles. Companies such as Boeing and McDonald's value strategic operational management. The city's rich history and cultural diversity enhance its professional landscape.
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  9. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $217,825
    Minneapolis is known for its business-friendly environment and diverse industries. Companies like Target and UnitedHealth Group seek strong operational leaders. The city's friendly atmosphere and excellent quality of life make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  10. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $215,470
    Boston's robust economy and educational institutions create a fertile ground for operational leaders. Companies like Biogen and Fidelity Investments value strategic operations. The city's historical charm and vibrant business scene offer a unique professional experience.
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What are the best companies a Chief Operating Officer can work for?

Korn Ferry and Prime Healthcare lead in offering high salaries for Chief Operating Officer jobs. Korn Ferry pays an impressive average of $373,864, while Prime Healthcare offers $289,375. NetApp follows closely, providing $284,898 on average. These companies stand out for their strong financial support to top operational leaders. Marsh McLennan Agency and Reed Construction also rank high in average salaries for Chief Operating Officers. Marsh McLennan Agency pays $264,650, and Reed Construction pays $187,500. These companies reflect a commitment to rewarding operational excellence. Better Talent, SCA Health, and United Way offer competitive pay, making them attractive choices for seasoned executives.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Chief Operating Officer jobs, highlighting Korn Ferry with the highest at $373,864 and ClassPass with the lowest at $87,763.
  1. Korn Ferry
    Average Salary: $373,864
    Korn Ferry offers Chief Operating Officer roles that involve managing company-wide operations. The company operates globally, with locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. These roles require strong leadership and operational experience.


  2. Prime Healthcare
    Average Salary: $289,375
    At Prime Healthcare, the Chief Operating Officer oversees hospital operations. This company operates in multiple states in the U.S., focusing on delivering high-quality care. Candidates need experience in healthcare management and operations.


  3. NetApp
    Average Salary: $284,898
    NetApp provides data storage and data management solutions. Chief Operating Officers here manage global operations and strategic planning. The company has offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  4. Marsh McLennan Agency
    Average Salary: $264,650
    Marsh McLennan Agency offers insurance, risk, and consulting services. The Chief Operating Officer role focuses on streamlining operations across various locations in the U.S. and internationally.


  5. Reed Construction
    Average Salary: $187,500
    Reed Construction is a leading firm in the construction industry. Chief Operating Officers manage projects and operations primarily in the United States. These roles demand strong project management skills and construction experience.


  6. Better Talent
    Average Salary: $141,167
    Better Talent specializes in recruitment solutions. The Chief Operating Officer oversees day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. The company is based in the U.S., with a focus on innovative talent solutions.


  7. SCA Health
    Average Salary: $140,478
    SCA Health focuses on outpatient surgery centers. The Chief Operating Officer manages operational efficiency and growth strategies. The company operates across multiple states in the U.S.


  8. United Way
    Average Salary: $101,007
    United Way works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. Chief Operating Officers manage programs and initiatives across the U.S. They need strong organizational and community engagement skills.


  9. ABCO Facility Maintenance
    Average Salary: $100,000
    ABCO Facility Maintenance provides facility management services. Chief Operating Officers oversee maintenance operations and client relations. The company operates in various locations across the U.S.


  10. ClassPass
    Average Salary: $87,763
    ClassPass offers fitness classes at various studios. The Chief Operating Officer manages operational functions and growth strategies. The company has a presence in major cities across the U.S.

How to earn more as a Chief Operating Officer?

A Chief Operating Officer (COO) plays a key role in running a company. A COO must manage daily operations and ensure everything runs smoothly. To earn more as a COO, focus on certain key factors. These factors can help increase your salary and job satisfaction.

One important factor is gaining more experience. Companies value COOs with a strong track record. Working in different industries can help you understand various business models. Another factor is developing strong leadership skills. Good leaders can motivate their teams and drive the company forward. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also be beneficial. This can open doors to new job opportunities. Specializing in a particular industry can make you more valuable. Lastly, continually learning and adapting to new trends can set you apart.

Investing in your professional development can lead to higher earnings. Pursuing advanced degrees or certifications can be worthwhile. Below are five factors that can help a COO earn more:

  1. Gain more experience in different industries.
  2. Develop strong leadership skills.
  3. Network with other industry professionals.
  4. Specialize in a particular industry.
  5. Continuously learn and adapt to new trends.

Currently 422 Chief Operating Officer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Chief Operating Officer in the US?

Learn what a Chief Operating Officer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Chief Operating Officer today.
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Chief Operating Officer
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