As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Operator II in the United States is $45,472 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.
However, a Machine Operator II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Operator II'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, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Operator II'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Operator I | 0-1 years | $40,919 |
| Machine Operator II | 1-3 years | $45,472 |
| Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $51,584 |
| Machine Operator IV | 5-7 years | $55,461 |
| Machine Operator 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 Machine Operator IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 3.99% |
| Machine Operation | 3.23% |
| Container | 2.39% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Analysis
|
$49,110 |
8%
|
|
Dedication
|
$48,655 |
7%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$47,291 |
4%
|
|
Leadership
|
$46,836 |
3%
|
|
Initiative
|
$46,836 |
3%
|
|
SOP
|
$46,381 |
2%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Machine Operator IIs enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Machine Operator II with a No Diploma is between $44,700 and $47,709).
Machine Operator II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 85.7% |
| High School | 85.7% |
| Associates | 9.5% |
| Bachelors | 4.8% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Machine Operator II'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 Machine Operator II, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Injection Molding Machine Operator III | $56,629 | 25% |
| Machine Operator III | $51,584 | 13% |
| Machinist III | $65,711 | 45% |
| CNC Machine Operator II | $62,684 | 38% |
Salaries for a Machine Operator II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $42,067 in 2023 to around $42,104 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Machine Operator II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $42,067 |
| 2024 | $42,218 |
| 2025 | $42,104 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Machine Operator II'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 Machine Operator II earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Machine Operator II is $57,354.
The highest pay for Machine Operator II is $54,606.
The lowest pay for Machine Operator II is $36,904.
Sets up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Uses computer-controlled equipment to select position and secure automatic or semi-automatic machines. Controls and adjusts machine settings to complete routine tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
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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