How Much Does an Operator III make?

Operator III made a median salary around $56,463 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $63,812 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $50,337. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Operator jobs in Yakima, Washington

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Best-Paying Cities for Operator III

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Operator III profession are Kenmore , Kirkland , Medina , Mercer Island , Redmond .
Kenmore, WA $61,601
Kirkland, WA $61,601
Medina, WA $61,601
Mercer Island, WA $61,601
Redmond, WA $61,601

Best-Paying States for Operator III

The states and districts that pay Operator III the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $62,159) , California (around $61,601) , New Jersey (around $61,210) , Alaska (around $60,819) , and Massachusetts (around $60,763) .
District of Columbia $62,159
California $61,601
New Jersey $61,210
Alaska $60,819
Massachusetts $60,763

What is the Career Path of Operator III?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Operator III, the first career path typically progresses to Machine Operator Supervisor.

The second career path typically starts with a Machinist IV position , and then progresses to Machine Shop Production Supervisor I.

The third career path typically progresses to Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator III.

Additionally, the fourth career path typically starts with a Packaging Supervisor position , and then progresses to Packaging Manager.

Besides, Operator III can also turn to other related jobs, including Machine Operator III , Press Operator III , Fab Operator III and Drill Operator III .

Frequently Asked Questions for Operator III

Q: What is the salary range of Operator III in Yakima, WA?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Operator III in Yakima, WA earned an average annual salary of $50,337 , while the highest-paid made $63,812.
Q: What is the salary for an Operator III in California?
A: Operator III employed in California earned an average salary of $61,601 in 2024.

Average Operator III Pay vs. Other Jobs

Operator III earned an average salary of $56,463 in 2024. Other jobs related to Operator III earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Machine Operator III made $55,922 , Press Operator III made $65,842 , Fab Operator III and Drill Operator III made $52,300 and $65,200 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Operator III

Machine Operator III - Average Salary $55,922
Machine Operator III 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. Being a Machine Operator III controls and adjusts machine settings to complete more complex tasks. May assist with training other machine operators. Additionally, Machine Operator III may calculate and assist with numeric controlled programming. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Machine Operator III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. To be a Machine Operator III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Press Operator III - Average Salary $65,842
Press Operator III completes print production jobs on various types of printing press machines, including digital, flexographic, web, screen, or others. Reviews job specifications and complete setup tasks, including filling ink, calibrating machine, and loading stock. Being a Press Operator III conducts visual inspection of samples prior to running job. Performs in-process quality inspections utilizing standard testing protocols. Additionally, Press Operator III completes all required production logs and documentation. Interprets equipment diagnostics, troubleshoots breakdowns, and makes necessary adjustments to complete the job. Performs regular maintenance, cleaning, and changeovers of press from one job to another. Maintains a clean and safe workspace. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Press Operator III independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. To be a Press Operator III typically requires 5-7 years of related experience.
Fab Operator III - Average Salary $52,300
The Fab Operator III performs the basic processes of production, such as baking, aligning, inspecting, etching, and cleaning the wafers. Manufactures wafers under general supervision. Being a Fab Operator III may require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Tracks the production queue and ensures the quality of final product; provides reports to management. In addition, Fab Operator III typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Being a Fab Operator III has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Working as a Fab Operator III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Drill Operator III - Average Salary $65,200
The Drill Operator III assembles and prepares rig equipment for use and monitors and adjusts equipment as necessary. Operates rig equipment and tools in compliance with safety regulations and functional specifications. Being a Drill Operator III maintains detailed records on activities, inspections, and maintenance in compliance with required regulatory standards. Responsible for pre-operational checks and post-operational servicing to prevent wear and ensure continuous operation. In addition, Drill Operator III may require a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Being a Drill Operator III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Working as a Drill Operator III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
CNC Operator III - Average Salary $72,790
The CNC Operator III selects appropriate settings and makes adjustments as necessary. Responsible for operating one or more types of computer numeric controlled production equipment. Being a CNC Operator III typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Follows established quality and safety standards. In addition, CNC Operator III typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Being a CNC Operator III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Working as a CNC Operator III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience, or may need 2 years experience with additional specialized training and/or certification.