How much does a Manufacturing Operator make?
Manufacturing operators play a key role in various industries, from automotive to electronics. They use machinery and tools to produce goods. This role requires skill and attention to detail. One important aspect to consider is the salary. On average, a manufacturing operator makes about $43,143 per year. This provides a stable income for those in the field.
Salary can vary based on experience and location. Those just starting might make less, while experienced workers can earn more. Here are the details:
- 10th percentile: $30,950
- 25th percentile: $33,718
- 50th percentile (median): $39,255
- 75th percentile: $47,559
- 90th percentile: $58,632
What are the highest paying cities for a Manufacturing Operator?

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Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $60,141
In Wilmington, work in a thriving manufacturing hub with many opportunities for skilled laborers. Notable companies like Honeywell and Hanesbrands offer stable roles. The area's growing economy provides good career growth.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $56,373
Atlanta boasts a dynamic job market with numerous manufacturing positions. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines offer excellent opportunities. The city's diverse economy supports a wide range of career paths.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $51,407
Milwaukee's manufacturing scene is robust, with big names like MillerCoors and Harley-Davidson. Workers benefit from a strong community and a variety of employment options. The city's dedication to industry keeps jobs steady.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $49,954
Columbus offers a variety of jobs in manufacturing, with companies like Nationwide and Huntington Bank. The city's economy is diverse, providing a stable job market and room for growth. Opportunities for training and advancement are plentiful.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $49,934
Worcester is known for its strong manufacturing sector, with employers like MassMutual and Fidelity Investments. The city provides a supportive environment for career growth. Skilled workers find many opportunities here.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $46,794
Indianapolis has a thriving manufacturing industry, with companies like Eli Lilly and Zimmer Biomet. The city offers many job opportunities and a supportive work environment. It’s a great place for career development.
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Waco, TX
Average Salary: $46,768
Waco supports a growing manufacturing sector, with companies like Dr Pepper Snapple Group. The city offers a welcoming environment for job seekers. Opportunities for growth and advancement are available.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $46,382
Tucson’s manufacturing jobs are plentiful, with companies like Raytheon and Freeport-McMoRan. The city's growing economy offers many opportunities for skilled workers. It’s a great place for career development.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $45,922
Buffalo has a robust manufacturing sector, with companies like General Electric and Moog. The city offers a solid job market and a supportive work environment. Workers benefit from many opportunities for growth.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $45,699
Fort Collins offers many manufacturing jobs, with companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Corporation. The city’s growing economy provides a stable job market. Opportunities for skilled workers are plentiful.
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What are the best companies a Manufacturing Operator can work for?

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Chobani
Average Salary: $58,625
Chobani offers rewarding Manufacturing Operator jobs in locations like New York, California, and Texas. Here, you will work on yogurt and other dairy products. Chobani promotes a healthy work environment and provides career growth opportunities.
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Analog Devices
Average Salary: $58,500
Analog Devices provides high-paying Manufacturing Operator jobs in Massachusetts, California, and Colorado. You will work with electronic components. The company values teamwork and innovation, making it a great place to grow your career.
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Johnson & Johnson
Average Salary: $58,490
Johnson & Johnson offers Manufacturing Operator positions in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California. You will work in health products. The company emphasizes patient care and professional development, ensuring you thrive in your role.
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MilliporeSigma
Average Salary: $56,979
MilliporeSigma provides Manufacturing Operator jobs in California, Massachusetts, and New York. You will work with chemicals and materials. The company focuses on quality and safety, providing a stable work environment.
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Frito-Lay
Average Salary: $55,969
Frito-Lay offers Manufacturing Operator roles in Texas, California, and Illinois. You will work on snack foods. The company values innovation and efficiency, offering many opportunities for career advancement.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $53,234
Abbott provides Manufacturing Operator jobs in Illinois, California, and Massachusetts. You will work on nutrition and medical products. The company focuses on improving health, giving you a sense of purpose in your job.
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Eli Lilly
Average Salary: $52,895
Eli Lilly offers Manufacturing Operator positions in Indiana, North Carolina, and California. You will work on pharmaceuticals. The company prioritizes research and development, ensuring you are part of meaningful projects.
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Post Consumer Brands
Average Salary: $51,156
Post Consumer Brands provides Manufacturing Operator jobs in California, Texas, and Pennsylvania. You will work on cereal and snacks. The company values community and sustainability, offering a positive work environment.
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Lamb Weston
Average Salary: $50,423
Lamb Weston offers Manufacturing Operator roles in Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. You will work on frozen potatoes and other produce. The company emphasizes quality and efficiency, ensuring you have a rewarding job.
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Saint-Gobain
Average Salary: $50,365
Saint-Gobain provides Manufacturing Operator jobs in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. You will work on building materials. The company values innovation and sustainability, making it a great place to develop your skills.
How to earn more as a Manufacturing Operator?
A Manufacturing Operator can boost their earnings through several key strategies. These approaches focus on skill enhancement, experience, and industry knowledge. Taking proactive steps can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. Employers value workers who continuously improve their abilities and adapt to new technologies.
Consider these factors to increase earnings:
- Learn new skills: Gaining expertise in new areas can make an operator more valuable. This might involve learning to use advanced machinery or understanding quality control processes better.
- Gain more experience: Working longer in the field allows an operator to become more efficient. Experience often leads to higher pay as operators prove their reliability and skill.
- Pursue certifications: Earning industry-specific certifications can increase earning potential. These credentials show dedication and specialized knowledge.
- Seek out higher-paying jobs: Exploring roles in industries that offer higher wages can lead to better pay. Research different sectors to find areas with higher demand for operators.
- Network within the industry: Building relationships with others in the field can open doors to better-paying jobs. Networking can also provide insights into job opportunities and industry trends.



