The Utah Right to Know system offers transparent access to public employee salaries across state and local government positions. In 2025, this tool remains a vital resource for job seekers, researchers, and public accountability advocates alike. Here’s a deep dive into salary expectations, job outlook, and what affects take-home pay in Utah’s public sector.
Average Salary Range in Utah (2025)
Based on data available through Utah’s transparency portals:
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Average Public Employee Salary: $59,000–$85,000/year
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Median Salary (Full-Time Positions): Approximately $70,500/year
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Higher-Tier Roles (e.g., Directors, Specialists): $90,000–$150,000/year
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Entry-Level Roles: $38,000–$55,000/year
💡 Example: A Senior Lead Navigator working in a state health department could earn between $96,000 and $112,000, depending on experience and location.
Factors That Influence Take-Home Pay
Even if a position is listed at $103,000/year, actual take-home pay can vary. Key influencing factors include:
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Taxes: Federal income tax, Utah state income tax (4.65%), FICA
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Benefits Deductions: Health insurance, dental, vision, retirement contributions
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Location Adjustments: Cost-of-living factors vary between Salt Lake City, Provo, and rural areas
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Job Classification: Management, unionized roles, and tenure-based pay scales
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Overtime/Bonuses: Limited in public sector but available in specific departments like public safety
Salary by Experience Level
Experience Level | Approx. Salary Range |
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Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $38,000 – $55,000 |
Mid-Level (3–7 yrs) | $56,000 – $78,000 |
Senior-Level (8–15 yrs) | $79,000 – $105,000 |
Executive/Leadership | $110,000 – $160,000+ |
🔍 Example: An Auxano Health Navigator with 10+ years of experience might earn over $100,000, especially if managing teams or projects.
Top Sectors for Public Jobs in Utah
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Education (K-12 and Higher Ed): Professors, counselors, admin staff
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Healthcare: Public health officers, clinical coordinators
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Transportation & Infrastructure: Engineers, planners
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Public Safety: Police, firefighters, emergency response
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Technology & Administration: IT specialists, HR, data analysts
Utah Public Sector Job Market Trends (2025)
📈 What’s Growing?
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Tech & Digital Services: Expansion in government digital platforms is driving demand for IT professionals.
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Healthcare Roles: Navigators, mental health coordinators, and telehealth support roles see a rise.
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Education Professionals: With ongoing teacher shortages, salary competitiveness is increasing.
📉 Slower Sectors:
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Clerical/Administrative Assistants: Some roles are being automated or consolidated.
Benefits That Add Value
While base salaries may seem lower than private-sector counterparts, Utah’s public jobs offer robust benefits, including:
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Utah Retirement Systems (URS): Defined benefit pension plans
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Health and Wellness Packages
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Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, holidays, and sick leave
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Education Reimbursement & Training Programs
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Work-Life Balance: Many roles offer hybrid work options
Education & Certifications That Boost Pay
🎓 Education:
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Bachelor’s Degree: Often required for most mid- to high-level roles
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Master’s Degree: Can lead to pay jumps, especially in education, public health, and administration
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Doctorate/Professional Degree: Highest earning potential in academia or executive positions
📜 Certifications:
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Project Management Professional (PMP)
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Certified Public Manager (CPM)
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CompTIA or Cisco (for IT roles)
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
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Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
Final Thoughts
Understanding salaries in Utah’s public sector through the Right to Know initiative empowers workers and promotes transparency. In 2025, while salaries remain competitive and benefits strong, prospective employees should also factor in experience, certifications, and local demand when evaluating their career options.
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