Project Manager in Papillion, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Papillion Stands

Let's cut right to the numbers. As a Project Manager in Papillion, you’re looking at a median salary of $99,001/year. That breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.6/hour. Now, let's put that in context. The national average for Project Managers sits at $101,280/year, so Papillion is right on par, just a hair under the U.S. median. For a city of its size—a metro population of 24,063—that’s a strong showing. The job market isn't flooded but is stable, with approximately 48 jobs available in the metro area at any given time. Over the last decade, the field has seen steady 10-Year Job Growth of 6%, indicating a reliable, if not explosive, career path.

To understand this salary in real terms, you need to break it down by experience. While Papillion doesn't have the same tiered pay structure as a massive coastal market, local employers do adjust for seniority.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Papillion)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$70,000 - $85,000	Coordinating small tasks, supporting senior PMs, learning local methodologies in construction or tech.
Mid-Career	$95,000 - $105,000	Managing full project cycles, stakeholder communication, budget oversight for local firms.
Senior	$110,000 - $130,000	Leading complex, multi-phase projects (e.g., infrastructure, healthcare expansions), mentoring teams.
Expert	$135,000+	Director-level roles, strategic portfolio management, often for regional headquarters or major contractors.

When compared to other Nebraska cities, Papillion holds its own. The Omaha metro, which Papillion is a part of, offers more jobs but often at a similar pay scale, with a slightly higher cost of living in core areas. Lincoln, home to the state capital and University of Nebraska, has a similar median salary but a more competitive market due to the influx of graduates. Smaller Nebraska cities like Grand Island or Kearney have lower median salaries (often in the $85,000-$95,000 range) but also a lower cost of living. Papillion sits in a sweet spot: it’s big enough to offer career opportunities but small enough to avoid the extreme competition and costs of a major metropolis.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

That $99,001 median salary is your gross income. Let's talk net. In Nebraska, you'll pay state income tax (ranging from 2.46% to 6.84% depending on bracket) and federal taxes. For a single filer with standard deductions, take-home pay typically lands around $72,000-$75,000 per year, or about $6,000-$6,250 per month.

Now, factor in housing. The average 1-bedroom rent in Papillion is $878/month. This is a significant advantage over national averages. Let's build a realistic monthly budget for a Project Manager earning the median salary.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (Papillion)	Notes
Take-Home Pay	~$6,200	After taxes, health insurance, 401(k) contribution.
Rent (1BR)	$878	Could be lower in older areas, higher in new complexes near 84th & Q.
Utilities	$200	Includes gas, electric, water, internet. Nebraska winters = higher gas bills.
Groceries	$400	Papillion has several well-stocked Hy-Vee and Aldi stores.
Transportation	$350	Car payment, insurance, gas. Papillion is car-dependent; public transit is limited.
Health/Insurance	$250	Co-pays, prescriptions, potential dental/vision.
Miscellaneous	$1,000	Dining out, entertainment, savings, hobbies.
Total Expenses	~$3,078
Monthly Savings	~$3,122	Over 50% of take-home pay.

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With over $3,000 in monthly savings, you could easily save for a down payment. The median home price in Papillion hovers around $300,000-$350,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family home. A $99,001 salary easily qualifies you for a mortgage in that range. Property taxes in Sarpy County are reasonable for the Omaha metro area, and you'll find excellent public schools, which is a major draw for families.

Where the Jobs Are: Papillion's Major Employers

Papillion’s job market is deeply connected to the broader Omaha metro, but it has its own anchors. The city is a hub for healthcare, tech, and construction. Here are the key players you should know:

1. CHI Health: With a major presence at the nearby Nebraska Medicine Bellevue and other clinics, CHI is a massive employer. Project Managers are needed for facility expansions, IT system integrations, and operational process improvements. Hiring is consistent, and they value PMP certification.
2. First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO): Headquartered in Omaha but with a significant operational footprint in Papillion. They hire Project Managers for their tech, compliance, and banking operations teams. It's a stable, large-employer environment.
3. Union Pacific Railroad: While the headquarters is in Omaha, UP has extensive operations in the area. Project Managers are critical for logistics, infrastructure projects, and tech initiatives. Salaries here can be at the higher end of the spectrum.
4. Caterpillar (Remote/Local): While the main plant is in neighboring Gretna, Caterpillar's influence is strong. Project Managers here often work in supply chain, manufacturing efficiency, and tech projects. Many roles are hybrid or remote.
5. MUD (Metropolitan Utilities District): The primary utility for the area. MUD hires Project Managers for water and infrastructure projects—a critical and consistent field, especially with the region's growth.
6. Local & Regional Construction Firms: Companies like Kiewit Building Group and MCL Construction have a strong presence. Papillion is growing, and residential/commercial construction requires skilled PMs to manage timelines, subcontractors, and budgets.
7. Tech Startups & SaaS Companies: The Omaha metro, including Papillion, has a burgeoning tech scene. Companies like Flywheel (digital marketing tech) and others in the "Silicon Prairie" ecosystem hire Project Managers for software development and product launches.

Insider Tip: Networking is key. Join the Project Management Institute (PMI) Nebraska Chapter. They host events in Omaha, which is a short drive, and many Papillion-based professionals attend.

Getting Licensed in NE

In Nebraska, Project Management is not a state-licensed profession like engineering or architecture. There is no mandatory state license required to hold the title "Project Manager." However, professional certification is the industry standard and is what employers demand.

The most recognized credential is the Project Management Professional (PMP)®, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Here’s the path:

• Requirements: You need 36 months of experience leading projects within the last 8 years if you have a bachelor’s degree, or 60 months if you don’t. You also need 35 hours of project management education.
• Costs: The exam fee for PMI members is $405. Non-members pay $555. PMI membership itself is $129/year (plus a $10 application fee). Many employers in Omaha/Papillion will reimburse this cost if you pass.
• Timeline: From studying to exam day, most professionals take 3-6 months. You can apply for the exam online through PMI’s website. Once approved, you schedule your test at a nearby testing center (Pearson VUE locations exist in Omaha).
• Nebraska-Specific Nuance: While no state license is required, some government or infrastructure projects may prefer or require PMI certifications. There are no additional state-level exams or fees beyond the national PMI cost.

Action Step: Start by documenting your project experience. Use the PMI’s experience summary template. Then, enroll in a 35-hour CAPM or PMP prep course (many are online and cost $300-$800). This is a direct investment in your earning potential.

Best Neighborhoods for Project Managers

Papillion is composed of several neighborhoods, each with a different feel and price point. Your choice will depend on your lifestyle and commute needs.

1. Central Papillion / Old Town: The historic heart of the city. You'll find older, charming homes and a more walkable vibe near the Papillon Creek Trail. Commutes are short, as everything is close. Rent for a 1BR apartment here might be slightly below average, around $825/month. Ideal for someone who wants a small-town feel with easy access to the downtown area.
2. The Lakes / Stone Creek: This is a master-planned community in the northwestern part of Papillion, near 144th and Giles. It’s modern, family-oriented, with parks, ponds, and newer homes. Commute to major employers like FNBO or CHI Health is straightforward via 144th Street (a major north-south artery). Rent for a newer 1BR in a complex here is closer to $950/month.
3. South Papillion / Harrison Street Area: This area offers a mix of older and newer housing, with easy access to 84th Street, another key commuter corridor. It’s quiet, with good schools. Commutes to the southern part of the metro (like Bellevue) are very easy. You can find 1BR apartments for rent around $875/month.
4. Northwest Papillion (near 156th & Maple): While technically just over the city line in Omaha, this area is popular with Papillion professionals. It’s closer to the main Interstate 680/I-80 interchange, offering the fastest commutes to downtown Omaha or west Omaha. Rent is higher, often $1,000+ for a 1BR, but you pay for convenience.

Commuter Insight: Papillion is a suburb, and most people drive. The average commute to Omaha is 20-25 minutes. Traffic is minimal compared to national averages. Your commute will be a breeze unless you're going to the far north or far south of the metro during rush hour.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 6% suggests steady advancement, but specialization is where you'll see salary premiums. In Papillion and the Omaha metro, these specialties are in demand:

• IT/Software Project Manager: With the tech sector growing, PMs with Agile/Scrum certifications can command salaries 10-15% above the median.
• Construction Project Manager: The ongoing housing and commercial boom means experienced PMs who can manage subcontractors and local permit processes are invaluable. This can push you toward the $115,000+ range at senior levels.
• Healthcare Project Manager: With major healthcare systems expanding, PMs who understand HIPAA and healthcare IT implementations are highly sought after.

Advancement Paths: A typical path is from Project Coordinator to Project Manager to Senior PM or Program Manager. The leap from Senior PM to a Director or VP role often requires moving to a larger regional headquarters, which are plentiful in Omaha. Many Papillion-based PMs find their growth ceiling in the city but find the next step in downtown Omaha, just 15 minutes away.

10-Year Outlook: Papillion's population is growing, and its relationship with the Omaha metro is strengthening. The demand for skilled Project Managers in healthcare, infrastructure, and tech will remain stable. While the 6% growth isn't explosive, the low cost of living and high quality of life make it easy to build a secure, comfortable career without the stress of a hyper-competitive market.

The Verdict: Is Papillion Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Affordability: Your $99,001 salary goes much further here than in most U.S. cities.	Car-Dependent Lifestyle: You need a car. Public transit is not a viable primary option.
Stable Job Market: Tied to Omaha’s robust economy, with strong sectors in healthcare, finance, and agriculture.	Limited "Big City" Amenities: You'll drive to Omaha for major concerts, pro sports, and extensive nightlife.
High Quality of Life: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of parks/trails.	Slower Pace: If you thrive on constant, high-energy change, the suburban pace might feel too quiet.
Short, Easy Commutes: Average drive times are short and traffic is manageable.	Weather: Winters are cold and snowy; summers can be hot and humid.
Strong Community Feel: You’ll quickly recognize neighbors and shopkeepers.	Limited Diversity: The cultural scene is growing but is less diverse than a major coastal city.

Final Recommendation: Papillion is an outstanding choice for Project Managers who value financial stability, a family-friendly environment, and a work-life balance. The numbers don't lie: a median salary of $99,001 coupled with an average rent of $878/month creates a powerful financial foundation. It's ideal for those looking to build wealth, buy a home, and enjoy a high quality of life without the pressures of a cutthroat, high-cost city. If you’re seeking a vibrant, 24/7 urban experience, you might look closer to downtown Omaha. But for a pragmatic, rewarding career with a low cost of living, Papillion is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Is it difficult to find a Project Manager job in Papillion with only a few years of experience?
The market is competitive but not saturated. With 48 jobs in the metro area, entry-level roles exist but often require a related degree or specific industry experience (e.g., construction, IT). Getting your PMP or even the CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) immediately after a few years of experience will make your resume stand out significantly.

2. How does the cost of living really feel day-to-day?
It feels liberating. A median salary of $99,001 in a city where the median home price is under $350,000 means you can afford a comfortable lifestyle on a single income. Groceries, utilities, and property taxes are all below the national average. You won't feel financially stretched, which reduces stress and improves quality of life.

3. What is the culture like at major employers like CHI Health or FNBO?
These are large, established organizations. Expect a structured environment with clear processes. They value stability, experience, and certifications. The culture is generally more traditional than a tech startup but offers excellent benefits, job security, and clear career ladders. Networking within your industry is crucial for navigating the hiring process.

4. Can I work remotely from Papillion for a company outside of Nebraska?
Yes, absolutely. Papillion has reliable high-speed internet, and with the Omaha Airport (just 15 minutes away) and Amtrak service, travel is easy. Many professionals in the area work for remote-first companies based in Denver, Chicago, or even on the coasts, taking advantage of Papillion's low cost of living while earning a larger market salary.

5. What are the best resources for local networking?
Beyond the PMI Nebraska Chapter, check out Meetup.com for Omaha-based project management and tech meetups. The Greater Omaha Chamber hosts events, and many employers have internal professional development groups. Don't underestimate the power of LinkedIn—searching for "Project Manager" and filtering by location (Papillion/Omaha) will show you who's hiring and where they work.