How much does a Manufacturing Operator make?
For those considering a career as a Manufacturing Operator, it is essential to understand what the potential earnings might look like. The average yearly salary for this role stands at $42,524. This figure reflects the earnings of many professionals who work in diverse manufacturing settings. As you look to start or advance in this field, it is helpful to know what earnings might be like at various stages of your career.
The salary data shows a clear progression as experience and skills grow. For instance, the bottom 10% of earners make around $31,000. This is often the case for new workers or those with less specialized skills. On the other end, the top 10% earn $59,400 or more. This group often has significant experience, advanced skills, or works in higher-paying regions. Most Manufacturing Operators fall somewhere in between these figures, with salaries reflecting their experience and the specific industry they work in.
What are the highest paying cities for a Manufacturing Operator?

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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $52,099
Milwaukee offers great opportunities for production workers. Companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson look for skilled operators. These roles come with benefits and career growth options.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $51,859
Atlanta's strong economy means many job openings for production workers. Companies such as Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines are hiring. These positions often offer competitive pay and benefits.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $47,976
In Indianapolis, you can find work with companies like Eli Lilly and General Motors. These companies need dedicated workers for their production lines. Positions often include health benefits and retirement plans.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $47,244
Columbus has a thriving manufacturing scene. Companies like Nationwide and John Deere hire many production operators. These roles often come with training and room to advance in your career.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $46,232
Lexington offers many jobs in manufacturing. Companies like UPS and Toyota have openings. These jobs often include good benefits and opportunities for professional development.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $46,048
Denver is known for its outdoor lifestyle and offers many production jobs. Companies like Ball Corporation and Lockheed Martin hire operators. These positions often come with health benefits and growth opportunities.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $46,047
Tucson has a growing economy and many manufacturing jobs. Raytheon and Freeport-McMoRan are hiring production workers. These positions often include benefits and training programs.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $45,589
Fort Collins offers a mix of outdoor and indoor job opportunities. Companies like P&G and Eaton hire production workers. These roles often come with good benefits and potential for career advancement.
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Waco, TX
Average Salary: $45,320
Waco provides a welcoming environment for production workers. Companies like Dr Pepper Snapple Group and Bell Helicopter hire operators. These jobs often include benefits and room for growth.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $45,259
Boulder offers many job opportunities in manufacturing. Companies like Ball Corporation and Estes Express Lines hire production workers. These positions often include benefits and professional development opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Manufacturing Operator can work for?

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Roche
Average Salary: $62,627
Roche offers rewarding Manufacturing Operator jobs. It operates in various locations including New York, San Francisco, and South San Francisco. Employees work in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring high standards in pharmaceutical production.
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Chobani
Average Salary: $58,429
Chobani provides an excellent opportunity for Manufacturing Operators. It has facilities in New York, Idaho, and Michigan. Here, employees are involved in producing high-quality food products, ensuring safety and quality.
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Eli Lilly
Average Salary: $56,044
Eli Lilly is known for its supportive environment for Manufacturing Operators. It has sites in Indianapolis, North Carolina, and California. The company focuses on innovative pharmaceuticals, offering a dynamic work environment.
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MilliporeSigma
Average Salary: $55,813
MilliporeSigma offers great salaries for Manufacturing Operators. The company operates in New Jersey, Massachusetts, and California. Employees work with cutting-edge technology to produce high-quality chemicals and materials.
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Frito-Lay
Average Salary: $55,457
Frito-Lay provides stable jobs for Manufacturing Operators. It has facilities in Texas, California, and Illinois. Here, employees are involved in making popular snack foods, ensuring top-notch quality and efficiency.
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Johnson & Johnson
Average Salary: $55,224
Johnson & Johnson offers rewarding careers for Manufacturing Operators. With locations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California, employees work in a setting that prioritizes health and safety.
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Analog Devices
Average Salary: $54,796
Analog Devices provides opportunities for Manufacturing Operators in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Employees work in modern facilities, producing advanced electronic components.
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Tolmar
Average Salary: $54,080
Tolmar offers roles for Manufacturing Operators in Colorado and New Jersey. Employees contribute to producing high-quality pharmaceutical products, ensuring precision and quality.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $52,355
Abbott provides rewarding jobs for Manufacturing Operators. It operates in Illinois, California, and Massachusetts. Employees are involved in producing medical devices and nutritional products.
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Post Consumer Brands
Average Salary: $51,353
Post Consumer Brands offers roles for Manufacturing Operators in various locations, including California and New York. Employees work in modern facilities, producing popular consumer brands.
How to earn more as a Manufacturing Operator?
A Manufacturing Operator can improve their earnings with the right skills and dedication. Focusing on enhancing qualifications often leads to higher pay. People in this role can explore various avenues to increase their income. These steps can help a Manufacturing Operator advance their career and achieve higher earnings.
Here are five key factors that can help a Manufacturing Operator earn more:
- Gain more experience: Working in the manufacturing field for several years builds valuable skills. Gaining experience can make an operator more valuable to employers.
- Obtain certifications: Certifications show a commitment to professional growth. They can also open doors to higher-paying jobs. Certifications in specific machinery or safety practices are very useful.
- Learn new skills: Staying updated with the latest technology and processes can make an operator more efficient. This can lead to higher productivity and better job opportunities.
- Network within the industry: Building relationships with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to better job offers. Networking can also provide insights into higher-paying roles.
- Seek promotions: Taking on more responsibility can lead to higher pay. Operators who show initiative and excel in their current role are often considered for promotions.



