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How much does a Manufacturing Operator make?

The average salary for a Manufacturing Operator is $43,299 per year in the US.

Manufacturing operators play a vital role in various industries, handling tasks that help produce goods. They earn a good salary, reflecting their essential work. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a manufacturing operator stands at around $43,299. This means they earn a steady income to support their families and their daily needs.


A breakdown of salaries shows a range of earnings for manufacturing operators. The lowest 10% of earners make about $30,950 per year, while the top 10% earn around $62,000 annually. Most operators fall somewhere in the middle, with the top 25% earning over $50,000 each year. This wide range offers opportunities for growth and advancement in the field. Operators can look forward to earning more as they gain experience and skills.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Manufacturing Operator?

Job seekers can find good pay in several cities. Wilmington, North Carolina, leads the pack with the highest average salary for Manufacturing Operators. Other top cities include Atlanta, Milwaukee, and Columbus. Apart from these top cities, consider looking at Waco, Indianapolis, Tucson, Buffalo, Denver, and Fort Collins. These cities also offer competitive salaries.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Manufacturing Operator jobs, highlighting Wilmington, NC with the highest at $60,141 and Fort Collins, CO with the lowest at $45,646.
  1. Wilmington, NC
    Average Salary: $60,141
    Wilmington offers a strong manufacturing sector with companies like Graco and Toyota. Working here means being part of a community that values skilled labor and offers a variety of job opportunities. The area's growing economy and supportive business environment make it a great place for career advancement.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Wilmington, NC


  2. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $56,373
    Atlanta's manufacturing scene includes big names like Delta Airlines and Coca-Cola. Employees benefit from a thriving urban environment with diverse job opportunities. The city's dynamic economy provides a solid foundation for professional growth and stability.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA


  3. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $51,788
    In Milwaukee, you'll find manufacturing giants such as Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson. Working here means being part of a city with a rich industrial heritage. Milwaukee's diverse economy and strong community support offer many pathways for career development.
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  4. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $49,636
    Columbus hosts major manufacturing companies like John Deere and Nissan. Employees here enjoy a balanced lifestyle with a mix of urban amenities and suburban tranquility. The city's diverse job market provides ample opportunities for growth and stability.
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  5. Waco, TX
    Average Salary: $46,768
    Waco features prominent companies like Dr Pepper and Texas State Technical College. Working in Waco means being part of a welcoming community with a focus on education and industry. The city's warm atmosphere and supportive business environment make it a great place for professionals.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Waco, TX


  6. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $46,734
    Indianapolis is home to manufacturers like Eli Lilly and Indiana University. Employees benefit from a vibrant city life with numerous job opportunities. The area's strong economy and diverse industries offer many pathways for career advancement.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  7. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $46,517
    Tucson's manufacturing sector includes companies like Raytheon and Ford. Working here means enjoying a sunny climate and a growing job market. The city's diverse economy and supportive community offer many opportunities for professional growth.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  8. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $46,113
    Buffalo features manufacturing companies like General Electric and Tops Markets. Employees benefit from a rich industrial history and a community that values skilled labor. The city's strong economy and diverse job market offer many pathways for career advancement.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Buffalo, NY


  9. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $46,048
    Denver's manufacturing scene includes companies like Ball Corporation and DaVita. Working here means enjoying a dynamic urban environment with many job opportunities. The city's vibrant economy and diverse industries provide ample opportunities for career growth.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Denver, CO


  10. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $45,646
    Fort Collins hosts major manufacturers like Hewlett-Packard and Lockheed Martin. Employees benefit from a strong sense of community and a thriving job market. The city's growing economy and supportive business environment offer many opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Manufacturing Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO

What are the best companies a Manufacturing Operator can work for?

Job seekers looking for roles as Manufacturing Operators have several excellent options. Companies like Chobani, Johnson & Johnson, and Analog Devices offer some of the highest average salaries. These top-tier employers provide not only competitive pay but also valuable career opportunities. Other notable companies include MilliporeSigma, Frito-Lay, and Abbott, all with strong compensation packages. Positions at these firms promise stability and growth, making them attractive to those in the manufacturing field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Manufacturing Operator jobs, highlighting Chobani with the highest at $58,857 and Saint-Gobain with the lowest at $50,434.
  1. Chobani
    Average Salary: $58,857
    Chobani offers rewarding Manufacturing Operator roles across multiple states in the U.S. This company focuses on making delicious and healthy yogurt. Chobani's modern facilities and dedication to employee well-being make it an attractive employer. Locations include New York, Idaho, and Pennsylvania.


  2. Johnson & Johnson
    Average Salary: $58,490
    Johnson & Johnson provides diverse opportunities for Manufacturing Operators in various health care and consumer product facilities. Their commitment to quality and innovation offers a stable and fulfilling career. Operating in states like California, Texas, and New Jersey, employees can expect a comprehensive benefits package.


  3. Analog Devices
    Average Salary: $58,308
    Analog Devices specializes in advanced technology and offers attractive compensation for Manufacturing Operators. They manufacture semiconductors and are present in cities like Boston, Massachusetts, and San Jose, California. The company prides itself on a collaborative work environment.


  4. MilliporeSigma
    Average Salary: $57,064
    MilliporeSigma, part of the Merck Group, offers diverse roles for Manufacturing Operators in scientific and high-tech fields. Based in cities like Darmstadt, Germany, and Burlington, Massachusetts, this company offers a dynamic work setting focused on innovation.


  5. Frito-Lay
    Average Salary: $56,275
    Frito-Lay, a part of PepsiCo, provides numerous opportunities for Manufacturing Operators in snack food production. With facilities in Texas and California, employees benefit from competitive pay and a strong company culture. The work environment is fast-paced and engaging.


  6. Abbott
    Average Salary: $53,767
    Abbott offers rewarding careers for Manufacturing Operators in the health care sector. They focus on nutrition, diagnostics, and branded generic medicines. Locations include Illinois and California. Abbott values innovation and employee development.


  7. Eli Lilly
    Average Salary: $51,302
    Eli Lilly provides a fulfilling work environment for Manufacturing Operators in the pharmaceutical industry. Their facilities are located in Indiana and California. Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career growth.


  8. Post Consumer Brands
    Average Salary: $51,172
    Post Consumer Brands offers diverse roles for Manufacturing Operators in the food and beverage industry. Locations include California and Illinois. The company is known for its quality products and employee-focused initiatives.


  9. Lamb Weston
    Average Salary: $50,443
    Lamb Weston provides rewarding opportunities for Manufacturing Operators in the food processing industry. They operate in Idaho and Washington. The company values quality and employee well-being, offering a supportive work environment.


  10. Saint-Gobain
    Average Salary: $50,434
    Saint-Gobain offers diverse Manufacturing Operator roles in construction materials and advanced manufacturing. Locations include Ohio and Pennsylvania. The company provides a stable and innovative work environment with strong career growth opportunities.

How to earn more as a Manufacturing Operator?

Becoming a high-earning manufacturing operator involves mastering several key skills and making strategic career choices. Individuals can enhance their earning potential by continuously learning and improving their job performance. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork all play a role in increasing income. Additionally, gaining experience in high-demand areas or specialized equipment can significantly boost earning power. Experience often leads to higher-paying positions and more responsibility.

Specialized training and certifications open doors to better-paying opportunities. Employers value operators who have completed training programs and have certifications in specific machinery or technologies. This expertise allows operators to take on more complex tasks and positions, leading to higher earnings. Networking with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to job openings and insights into higher-paying roles. Staying active in professional groups and attending industry events can create valuable connections.

Here are five factors that can help a manufacturing operator earn more:

  1. Continuous Learning: Always seek to learn new skills and technologies.
  2. Specialized Training: Get certified in specific machinery or equipment.
  3. Gain Experience: Work in high-demand areas or learn to use specialized tools.
  4. Network: Connect with industry professionals and attend events.
  5. Problem-Solving Skills: Excel in troubleshooting and efficiency improvements.

Currently 439 Manufacturing Operator job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Manufacturing Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Manufacturing Operator today.
Position
Overview
Manufacturing Operator
439 Job Openings