As of June 01, 2026, the average salary for a Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I in Tennessee is $33,519 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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Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator I Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $36,085 | $3,007 | $694 | $17 |
| Average | $33,519 | $2,793 | $645 | $16 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,750 | $2,562 | $591 | $15 |
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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 | $33,519 |
| Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator II | 1-3 years | $41,552 |
| Surface Mount Tech Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $46,211 |
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:
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:
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.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $36,085 | $3,007 | $694 | $17 |
| Average | $33,519 | $2,793 | $645 | $16 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,750 | $2,562 | $591 | $15 |
Promotions 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. | $50,999 | 52% |
| Injection Molding Machine Operator II | $45,327 | 35% |
| Machine Operator II | $42,495 | 27% |
| Milling Machine Operator II | $43,796 | 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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