Machine Operator Salaries

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Machine Operator make?

The average salary for a Machine Operator is $40,742 per year in the US.

Machine Operators earn a wide range of salaries based on their experience and the complexity of their work. The average yearly salary for a Machine Operator is around $40,742. However, many factors influence this amount.


Entry-level positions start at approximately $29,000 per year. As operators gain experience and improve their skills, they can expect higher wages. For instance, those with more experience can earn around $37,182 to $39,909 annually. The highest-paid Machine Operators can make up to $59,000 a year.


Overall, pursuing a career as a Machine Operator offers a solid path to financial stability. With dedication and skill development, there is room for advancement and better pay in the field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Machine Operator?

Boston, MA offers the highest average salary for Machine Operators at $88,243 per year, making it a top choice for professionals in the field. Other cities such as Washington, DC and Savannah, GA also provide competitive salaries, averaging $72,779 and $69,527 respectively. If you are considering a career in this industry, exploring opportunities in these cities can lead to a rewarding financial future.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Machine Operator jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $88,243 and College Station, TX with the lowest at $51,697.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $88,243
    In Boston, machine operators play a vital role in the city's manufacturing sector. Companies like General Electric and Gillette offer opportunities in high-tech and consumer goods production.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $72,779
    Washington, DC has a unique blend of manufacturing and government contracting. Machine operators can find roles in companies supporting the defense sector, contributing to important national projects.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Savannah, GA
    Average Salary: $69,527
    Savannah's port city status creates diverse manufacturing roles for machine operators. Local industries include shipbuilding and logistics, providing hands-on experiences in a vibrant environment.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Savannah, GA


  4. Tallahassee, FL
    Average Salary: $61,098
    In Tallahassee, machine operators support various industries, including food processing and manufacturing. Local companies value skilled personnel to maintain productivity and efficiency.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Tallahassee, FL


  5. Beaumont, TX
    Average Salary: $56,995
    Beaumont is known for its industrial sector, especially in oil and gas. Machine operators here work in several plants, ensuring smooth equipment operation in a thriving economy.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Beaumont, TX


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $54,572
    Seattle boasts a strong tech and manufacturing scene. As a machine operator, you can work in influential companies, contributing to everything from aerospace development to coffee production.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $53,409
    Miami's diverse economy includes many industries needing machine operators. Local manufacturers support the vibrant tourism sector, crafting products that appeal to both locals and visitors.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Miami, FL


  8. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $52,680
    Albany's manufacturing sector includes technology and pharmaceuticals. Machine operators in this area play an essential role in producing innovative products for a growing market.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Albany, NY


  9. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $52,248
    In Los Angeles, machine operators are key players in industries like entertainment and manufacturing. Opportunities in film production and tech companies offer dynamic work environments.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  10. College Station, TX
    Average Salary: $51,697
    College Station features a mix of education and manufacturing. Machine operators can find rewarding positions in production facilities tied to local universities and businesses.
    Find Machine Operator jobs in College Station, TX

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

Machine Operators can find some of the highest salaries at Delta Express Inc, with an impressive average of $385,714. Outlaw Trucking and Medtronic also offer attractive pay, with averages of $199,843 and $75,845, respectively. These companies not only provide great compensation but also potential for career growth in the industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Machine Operator jobs, highlighting Delta Express Inc with the highest at $385,714 and AstenJohnson with the lowest at $54,060.
  1. Delta Express Inc
    Average Salary: $385,714
    Delta Express Inc offers competitive pay for Machine Operators. They have locations across the United States and focus on efficient logistics. Workers here enjoy a supportive environment and opportunities for advancement.


  2. Outlaw Trucking
    Average Salary: $199,843
    Outlaw Trucking provides good salaries for Machine Operators, especially those working in the transportation sector. With operations throughout North America, the company values skilled workers and offers training programs.


  3. Medtronic
    Average Salary: $75,845
    Medtronic is a global leader in medical technology. They hire Machine Operators in various states, ensuring high standards in production. The company promotes a culture of innovation and growth.


  4. CPKC
    Average Salary: $66,283
    CPKC offers solid pay for Machine Operators, particularly in rail operations. They operate across North America and provide a stable work environment with ample benefits.


  5. Willamette Graystone
    Average Salary: $63,483
    Willamette Graystone employs Machine Operators in the construction materials industry. They are located in multiple regions and focus on quality and efficiency in manufacturing.


  6. BioLife Plasma Services
    Average Salary: $59,896
    BioLife Plasma Services hires Machine Operators to support their laboratories across the country. They offer competitive pay and a commitment to employee development and safety.


  7. Tesla
    Average Salary: $57,043
    Tesla provides exciting opportunities for Machine Operators at their manufacturing plants. With locations in California and Texas, the company emphasizes sustainability and innovative technology.


  8. Abbott
    Average Salary: $56,538
    Abbott employs Machine Operators in their healthcare divisions. They operate in various locations and are dedicated to improving health through quality products and a positive work culture.


  9. Primoris Services Corporation
    Average Salary: $54,375
    Primoris Services Corporation offers a range of opportunities for Machine Operators in the construction and energy sectors. With operations across the U.S., they focus on safety and teamwork.


  10. AstenJohnson
    Average Salary: $54,060
    AstenJohnson employs Machine Operators in the textile and paper industries. They have locations in North America and emphasize employee training and skill development.

How to earn more as a Machine Operator?

As a machine operator, boosting your earnings is possible with a few strategic steps. Focus on these key factors to increase your income:

  • Gain Certifications: Earn specific certifications related to machinery and safety. Certifications make you more valuable to employers and can lead to higher pay.
  • Learn New Skills: Master advanced skills such as computer programming or robotics. These skills open doors to better job opportunities and pay raises.
  • Work Overtime: Accept overtime shifts whenever possible. Overtime hours often come with higher pay rates, allowing you to increase your earnings significantly.
  • Seek Promotions: Aim for advancement within your current job. Look for roles such as lead operator or supervising manager, as they typically offer higher salaries.
  • Network Professionally: Build connections within your industry. Networking can lead to job openings and offers that provide better salaries.

By focusing on these areas, you can enhance your skills and position yourself for higher earnings as a machine operator.

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Currently 4,551 Machine Operator job openings, nationwide!

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

Learn what a Machine Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Machine Operator today.
Position
Overview
Machine Operator
4,551 Job Openings