As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Operator III in the United States is $51,565 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $25.
However, a Machine Operator III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Operator III'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 III'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 | $45,469 |
| Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $51,565 |
| Machine Operator IV | 5-7 years | $65,152 |
| Machine Operator Supervisor | 7+ years | $80,447 |
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 IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 4.3% |
| Machine Operation | 3.88% |
| Food Safety | 2.21% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Analysis
|
$57,237 |
11%
|
|
Standard Operating Procedures
|
$54,659 |
6%
|
|
Decision Making
|
$54,143 |
5%
|
|
Initiative
|
$54,143 |
5%
|
|
SOP
|
$53,628 |
4%
|
|
Dedication
|
$53,628 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Machine Operator IIIs 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 III with a No Diploma is between $51,335 and $54,850).
Machine Operator III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 5.1% |
| High School | 74.4% |
| Associates | 10.3% |
| Bachelors | 7.7% |
| Masters | 2.6% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Machine Operator III'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Machine Operator III, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Operator IV | $65,152 | 26% |
| Machinist IV | $73,274 | 42% |
| CNC Machine Operator III | $71,254 | 38% |
| Packaging Supervisor | $84,384 | 64% |
If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution.
Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Machine Operator III and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Machine Operator III job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Machine Operator III'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 III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Machine Operator III is $65,039.
The highest pay for Machine Operator III is $62,665.
The lowest pay for Machine Operator III is $42,338.
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 more complex tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. May assist with training other machine operators. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 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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