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How much does a Grain Elevator Operator make?

The average salary for a Grain Elevator Operator is $40,332 per year in the US.

A Grain Elevator Operator plays a key role in the agricultural sector. This job involves managing grain storage and distribution. Salary information shows that the average yearly pay for this role is $40,332. This is an attractive figure for those considering this career path.

Grain Elevator Operators can earn a range of salaries. The lowest-paid workers make around $30,000. Most operators, however, make between $33,304 and $53,127. Those in the top 10% earn more than $56,431 a year. This range reflects the skill level, experience, and location of the operator. Many find this job rewarding due to both the competitive salary and the hands-on work.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Grain Elevator Operator?

Grain elevator operators can find top salaries in major cities like Kansas City, MO, and San Jose, CA. These two cities stand out with average salaries of over $45,000 annually. Job seekers should consider these locations for higher earnings potential. Kansas City, MO, boasts a vibrant economy and offers substantial pay, making it an attractive destination for operators. Similarly, San Jose, CA, combines strong industry presence with competitive wages. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Grain Elevator Operator jobs, highlighting Kansas City, MO with the highest at $49,226 and Las Vegas, NV with the lowest at $35,568.
  1. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $49,226
    In Kansas City, expect a dynamic role managing grain storage. Companies like ADM and Bunge offer growth and stability. You'll handle grain flow and ensure quality.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Kansas City, MO


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $45,212
    San Jose provides a mix of urban and rural job settings. Working with firms such as Land O'Lakes, you'll oversee operations, ensuring smooth grain handling and storage.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $44,385
    Midland, known for its grain farming, is a prime location for this role. With major companies like Gavilon, you'll play a key role in grain collection and processing.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Midland, TX


  4. Omaha, NE
    Average Salary: $41,778
    Omaha offers a blend of city life and rural work. Companies like ConAgra Foods provide ample opportunities. You'll manage grain movement and maintain high safety standards.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Omaha, NE


  5. Wichita, KS
    Average Salary: $39,990
    In Wichita, this job is vital to the local agriculture sector. Working with companies like Cargill, you'll oversee grain operations, ensuring efficiency and safety.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Wichita, KS


  6. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $39,847
    Phoenix offers a mix of dry heat and modern facilities. Companies like Koch Supply and Trading provide diverse roles. You'll handle grain operations with attention to detail.
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  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $39,222
    San Diego combines coastal living with industrial operations. Companies such as Louis Dreyfus Company offer a unique setting. You'll manage grain in a vibrant community.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Spokane, WA
    Average Salary: $38,100
    Spokane offers a serene environment with great opportunities. Companies like Wilmar International provide a supportive workplace. You'll focus on grain logistics and quality control.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Spokane, WA


  9. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $36,678
    Greeley is central to Colorado's grain operations. Working with firms like AGP Grain, you'll manage grain flow, ensuring smooth operations.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Greeley, CO


  10. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $35,568
    Las Vegas offers a unique setting for this job. Companies like Noble offer modern facilities. You'll handle grain operations, focusing on safety and efficiency.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in Las Vegas, NV

What are the best companies a Grain Elevator Operator can work for?

Bartlett Grain stands out as a top employer for Grain Elevator Operators with an average salary of $43,643. The DeLong Co., Inc. and CGB Enterprises also offer competitive wages, at $41,132 and $39,210 respectively. These companies provide good earning potential for those seeking a stable job in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Grain Elevator Operator jobs, highlighting Bartlett Grain with the highest at $43,643 and Pride Ag Resources with the lowest at $30,000.
  1. Bartlett Grain
    Average Salary: $43,643
    Bartlett Grain offers competitive salaries for Grain Elevator Operators. They operate in key agricultural regions. Bartlett Grain focuses on quality and service. Positions are available in several locations across the Midwest.


  2. The DeLong Co., Inc.
    Average Salary: $41,132
    The DeLong Co., Inc. provides a solid salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They have facilities in various states. The company emphasizes teamwork and efficiency. Job openings are available in multiple locations.


  3. CGB Enterprises
    Average Salary: $39,210
    CGB Enterprises offers a good salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They serve many regions with their grain facilities. CGB Enterprises values skilled workers. Positions are available in selected areas.


  4. ROAD & RAIL SERVICES
    Average Salary: $38,824
    ROAD & RAIL SERVICES offers a reliable salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They have locations in several states. The company is known for its commitment to safety and quality. Job opportunities exist in various regions.


  5. Service Corporation International
    Average Salary: $38,802
    Service Corporation International provides a good salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They operate in multiple locations across the country. The company focuses on excellence and customer service. Positions are available in selected areas.


  6. Smithfield Foods
    Average Salary: $37,044
    Smithfield Foods offers a competitive salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They have facilities in several key areas. The company is known for its strong culture and opportunities for growth. Job openings are available in multiple regions.


  7. Alliance Ag & Grain LLC
    Average Salary: $33,000
    Alliance Ag & Grain LLC provides a fair salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They serve many agricultural regions. The company emphasizes innovation and efficiency. Job opportunities are available in selected areas.


  8. Farmer's Cooperative Elevator Company
    Average Salary: $32,666
    Farmer's Cooperative Elevator Company offers a decent salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They operate in various locations. The company focuses on community and quality. Positions are available in selected regions.


  9. Pride Ag Resources
    Average Salary: $30,000
    Pride Ag Resources provides a reasonable salary for Grain Elevator Operators. They serve multiple regions with their facilities. The company values teamwork and dedication. Job openings are available in selected areas.

How to earn more as a Grain Elevator Operator?

A Grain Elevator Operator can boost their earnings through various means. Focusing on professional growth often leads to higher pay. Training and certifications enhance skills and make a candidate more valuable. Working during peak harvest seasons can also increase opportunities for overtime and higher pay rates. Experience in handling different types of grains adds versatility and can command a higher salary.

Networking within the industry opens doors to better-paying jobs and promotions. Seeking out positions in areas with higher demand for grain elevator operators can lead to better compensation. Employers often reward dedication and a strong work ethic with raises and bonuses. Here are five key factors that can help increase earnings:

  • Certifications and Training: Gaining specialized certifications can improve skills and lead to higher-paying jobs.
  • Experience: Working with various grains and equipment makes an operator more valuable.
  • Peak Season Work: Taking on jobs during busy harvest times can increase earnings.
  • Networking: Building relationships in the industry can lead to better job opportunities.
  • Location: Choosing to work in areas with higher demand can lead to higher pay.

Currently 119 Grain Elevator Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Grain Elevator Operator in the US?

Learn what a Grain Elevator Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Grain Elevator Operator today.
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Grain Elevator Operator
119 Job Openings