How much does a Grain Elevator Operator make?
Grain Elevator Operators play a crucial role in the agricultural industry, ensuring grains are stored and processed properly. The average yearly salary for this profession is about $40,068. This salary can change based on experience and location. Some Grain Elevator Operators earn more, while others earn less, but most fall within this range.
Salaries for Grain Elevator Operators vary by the percentile of earners. Here are the details:
- 10th percentile: $30,000
- 25th percentile: $32,727
- 50th percentile (median): $38,182
- 75th percentile: $43,636
- 90th percentile: $51,818
What are the highest paying cities for a Grain Elevator Operator?

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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $49,273
In Kansas City, opportunities in grain handling thrive. With companies like ADM, a global leader, job seekers can gain valuable experience in a major agricultural hub. The area's extensive rail and highway networks make it a logistics powerhouse.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,850
San Jose offers diverse job prospects in the grain industry. Companies such as Cargill provide excellent career growth. The city's strategic location makes it a key player in the agricultural supply chain.
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Midland, TX
Average Salary: $43,714
Midland is central to the Permian Basin, a key area for oil and agriculture. Working here means being part of a dynamic industry. Companies like Basler Grain Corp. offer exciting career paths in grain operations.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $41,789
Omaha stands as a major transportation and logistics center. The grain industry here benefits from its central location and extensive rail networks. Job seekers can find promising opportunities with companies like Gavilon.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $39,790
Wichita offers a robust job market in grain handling. With companies like Bunge Limited, job seekers can expect good career prospects. The city's strong infrastructure supports a thriving agricultural sector.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $39,053
San Diego, known for its mild climate, also has a strong grain industry. Companies like CHS Inc. provide diverse roles in grain operations. The city's port and logistics networks add to its appeal.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $38,744
Phoenix is a growing hub for agriculture and grain handling. Companies like Viterra offer exciting opportunities. The city's expanding logistics and transportation sectors support a vibrant industry.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $38,321
Spokane provides a unique opportunity in the grain industry. With a strong focus on agriculture, companies like Andersons offer rewarding careers. The city’s transportation links enhance its importance in the sector.
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Greeley, CO
Average Salary: $36,751
Greeley is a key player in Colorado’s grain industry. Companies like CoBank offer great career opportunities. The area’s strong agricultural roots make it a dynamic place to work.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $35,568
Las Vegas, known for its entertainment, also has a thriving grain industry. Companies like Louis Dreyfus Company provide diverse job roles. The city's logistics and transportation networks are a big advantage.
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What are the best companies a Grain Elevator Operator can work for?

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Bartlett Grain
Average Salary: $43,308
Bartlett Grain is a top employer for Grain Elevator Operators. They operate across multiple states and focus on quality and sustainability. Bartlett Grain provides a range of opportunities in key locations such as Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.
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The DeLong Co., Inc.
Average Salary: $41,600
The DeLong Co., Inc. offers competitive salaries for Grain Elevator Operators. The company has a long history in the industry and operates in key grain hubs. They provide exciting opportunities in areas like Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
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CGB Enterprises
Average Salary: $39,387
CGB Enterprises is known for its dynamic work environment and strong benefits. They operate in the Midwest and offer a variety of positions for Grain Elevator Operators in states such as Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
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Service Corporation International
Average Salary: $38,701
Service Corporation International is a leader in the grain industry. They offer competitive wages and a supportive work environment. The company operates in locations like Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas, providing ample opportunities.
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ROAD & RAIL SERVICES
Average Salary: $38,462
ROAD & RAIL SERVICES is a key player in grain transportation. They offer reliable jobs for Grain Elevator Operators with a focus on safety and efficiency. They operate across states such as Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana.
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Smithfield Foods
Average Salary: $37,077
Smithfield Foods provides a variety of roles for Grain Elevator Operators. They focus on innovation and customer service. The company operates in important grain regions, including North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina.
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Farmer's Cooperative Elevator Company
Average Salary: $32,635
Farmer's Cooperative Elevator Company offers a stable work environment for Grain Elevator Operators. They emphasize community involvement and offer opportunities in states like Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming.
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Pride Ag Resources
Average Salary: $30,000
Pride Ag Resources is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and solid benefits. They operate in several states and offer various positions for Grain Elevator Operators in locations such as South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa.
How to earn more as a Grain Elevator Operator?
A Grain Elevator Operator plays a key role in the agriculture industry. This job involves managing and overseeing the operation of a grain elevator. It requires careful attention to detail and a solid understanding of grain storage and handling. Those who excel in this role can enjoy a range of benefits, including a higher salary.
Here are some ways to increase earnings as a Grain Elevator Operator:
- Gain Experience: More experience leads to higher pay. Each year spent on the job brings new skills and expertise.
- Seek Certification: Obtaining certifications in grain handling can boost your resume and increase your value to employers.
- Take on Additional Responsibilities: If possible, take on tasks like equipment maintenance and inventory management. This can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities.
- Improve Safety Protocols: Implementing and following strict safety measures can make operations smoother and safer. This can lead to bonuses and promotions.
- Pursue Further Education: Taking courses in agricultural management or business can open up higher-paying positions.



