Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salary in the United States

How much does a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator make in the United States?

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator in the United States is $41,444 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $20.

However, a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $60,541
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $34,238 to $51,440
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $27,677
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Paid Annually Paid Monthly Paid Semimonthly Paid Biweekly Paid Weekly Paid Hourly
View as table View as graph 25% $34,238 10% $27,677 90% $60,541 75% $51,440 $41,444 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary		 Monthly
Pay		 Weekly
Pay		 Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $51,440 $4,287 $989 $25
Average $41,444 $3,454 $797 $20
25th Percentile $34,238 $2,853 $658 $16
Check out Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Job Openings in the United States
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Key Factors That Influence Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salaries

A Dairy Processing Equipment Operator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Dairy Processing Equipment Operators

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $52,274
  • San Francisco: $51,760
  • Oakland: $50,612

Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator'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.

  • Hourly
  • Monthly
  • Weekly
  • Yearly
  • Table View
Last Updated on January 01, 2026
$34,238
Average $41,444/year
$51,440
$2,853
Average $3,454/month
$4,287
$658
Average $797/week
$989
$16
Average $20/hour
$25
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $51,440 $4,287 $989 $25
Average $41,444 $3,454 $797 $20
25th Percentile $34,238 $2,853 $658 $16

Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salary Growth & Career Path

Dairy Processing Equipment Operator
Extrusion Operator, Sr.
Injection Molding Machine Operator II
Machine Operator II
Milling Machine Operator II
Injection Molding Machine Operator III
Machine Operator III

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator, 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.

Dairy Processing Equipment Operator Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Extrusion Operator, Sr. $54,524 32%
Injection Molding Machine Operator II $48,484 17%
Machine Operator II $45,469 10%
Milling Machine Operator II $57,584 39%

Salaries of jobs related to Dairy Processing Equipment Operator

Most common benefits for Dairy Processing Equipment Operator

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Pension
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FAQ about Dairy Processing Equipment Operator

1. Where can a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator earn the most?

A Dairy Processing Equipment Operator's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Dairy Processing Equipment Operator is $52,274.

2. What is the highest pay for Dairy Processing Equipment Operator?

The highest pay for Dairy Processing Equipment Operator is $60,541.

3. What is the lowest pay for Dairy Processing Equipment Operator?

The lowest pay for Dairy Processing Equipment Operator is $27,677.

4. What are the responsibilities of Dairy Processing Equipment Operator?

Sets-up and operates continuous flow equipment to process milk, cream, and other dairy products. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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