As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I in Montana is $33,858 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.
However, a Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Surface Mount Tech 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 Surface Mount Tech 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I | 0-1 years | $33,858 |
| Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator II | 1-3 years | $41,978 |
| Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $46,689 |
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 Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $38,131. While startup companies pay approximate $32,269.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $32,269 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $34,120 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $36,827 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $38,131 |
For Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 50% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Chemicals, offers compensation 30% above the average. Conversely, Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator positions in MFG Durable typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemicals | $44,016 | $21.0 | 30% |
Understanding how a Surface Mount Tech 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 July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Surface Mount Tech 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Extrusion Operator, Sr. | $51,533 | 52% |
| Injection Molding Machine Operator II | $45,796 | 35% |
| Machine Operator II | $42,932 | 27% |
| Milling Machine Operator II | $44,245 | 31% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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