As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Manufacturing Machine Operator I in the United States is $40,990 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $20.
However, a Manufacturing Machine Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Manufacturing Machine Operator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Manufacturing Machine Operator I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Machine Operator I | 0-1 years | $40,919 |
| Intermediate Machine Operator | 1-3 years | $45,472 |
| Production Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $51,584 |
| Manufacturing Machine Operator IV | 5-7 years | $55,461 |
| Production Machine Operations Supervisor | 7+ years | $80,511 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Manufacturing Machine Operator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 3.86% |
| Machine Operation | 3.15% |
| Container | 2.29% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
CNC
|
$43,859 |
7%
|
|
Accountability
|
$42,630 |
4%
|
|
SOP
|
$42,220 |
3%
|
|
Dedication
|
$42,220 |
3%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$41,810 |
2%
|
|
ISO
|
$41,810 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Manufacturing Machine Operator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Manufacturing Machine Operator I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Extruder Operator II | $54,600 | 33% |
| Plastic Injection Molding Operator II | $48,500 | 18% |
| Intermediate Machine Operator | $45,500 | 11% |
| Milling Machine Technician II | $46,900 | 14% |
Salaries for a Manufacturing Machine Operator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $38,256 in 2023 to around $37,727 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Manufacturing Machine Operator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $38,256 |
| 2024 | $37,980 |
| 2025 | $37,727 |
| 2026 |
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|
| 2027 |
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|
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