How Much Does an Operator make?

Operator made a median salary around $51,303 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $58,069 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $45,808. 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 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Operator

Manpower - East Berlin, PA

Operator

PeopleShare Inc - Butler, PA

Forklift Operator/Clamp Operator

KENCO CORPORATION - Northampton, PA

Forklift Operator

Chewy - Lewisberry, PA

download asset banner
Facing Salary Structure Challenges? Let Our Expert Guide You
The job market is increasingly challenging. Our whitepaper, Navigating the Challenges of Creating Salary Structures, offers guidance on creating salary structures. Provide your phone number and work email to download the full version.
We will handle your contact details in line with our Privacy Policy. If you prefer not to receive marketing emails from Salary.com, you can opt-out out of marketing communications at any time by clicking unsubscribe.

Best-Paying Cities for Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Operator profession are Matamoras , Newtown , Fairless Hills , Langhorne , Washington Crossing .
Matamoras, PA $55,044
Newtown, PA $52,760
Fairless Hills, PA $52,760
Langhorne, PA $52,760
Washington Crossing, PA $52,760

Best-Paying States for Operator

The states and districts that pay Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $54,072) , California (around $53,586) , New Jersey (around $53,246) , Alaska (around $52,906) , and Massachusetts (around $52,858) .
District of Columbia $54,072
California $53,586
New Jersey $53,246
Alaska $52,906
Massachusetts $52,858

What is the Career Path of Operator?

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, the first career path typically progresses to Injection Molding Machine Operator III.

The second career path typically starts with a Machine Operator III position , and then progresses to Machine Operator Supervisor.

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

Additionally, the fourth career path typically starts with a Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator II position , and then progresses to Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator III.

Besides, Operator can also turn to other related jobs, including Switchboard Operator , Camera Operator , Crane Operator and Operator, Assembly Operator .

Frequently Asked Questions for Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Operator in Philadelphia, PA?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Operator in Philadelphia, PA earned an average annual salary of $45,808 , while the highest-paid made $58,069.
Q: What is the salary for an Operator in California?
A: Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $53,586 in 2024.

Average Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Operator earned an average salary of $51,303 in 2024. Other jobs related to Operator earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Switchboard Operator made $41,632 , Camera Operator made $48,086 , Crane Operator and Operator, Assembly Operator made $55,199 and $61,813 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Operator

Switchboard Operator - Average Salary $41,632
Switchboard Operator operates a switchboard or telephone console to route incoming calls and place outgoing calls. Answers incoming calls and basic questions, transfers calls to extensions, and responds to emergency situations as necessary. Being a Switchboard Operator monitors the phone system's efficiency and performs routine troubleshooting. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. Additionally, Switchboard Operator typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Switchboard Operator may require 0-1 year of general work experience. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area.
Camera Operator - Average Salary $48,086
Camera Operator operates cameras, broadcasting or video recording cameras, and equipment to photograph various subjects and subject material. May be expected to maintain a variety of program/transmitter logs. Being a Camera Operator requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and 0-2 years of experience. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Additionally, Camera Operator relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.
Crane Operator - Average Salary $55,199
Crane Operator operates a crane to lift, move, load, unload, or position heavy materials or equipment. Performs daily safety and performance checks of crane equipment and may perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating or checking fluid levels. Being a Crane Operator communicates via hand or radio signals to receive or convey instructions. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols. Additionally, Crane Operator maintains documentation of activities including time logs and inspection reports to ensure compliance with regulations and operating procedures. Typically requires a high school diploma. May require NCCCO Certification. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Crane Operator works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Crane Operator typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Operator, Assembly Operator - Average Salary $61,813
There is currently no job description for Operator, Assembly Operator, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Operator, Assembly Operator.
Surveillance Operator - Average Salary $41,748
Surveillance Operator operates all surveillance computer equipment. Monitors all areas of the property and closely observes a target game, staff member, or customer. Being a Surveillance Operator ensures compliance with applicable gaming regulations. Reports improper activity or disturbances to supervisor or security team for further investigation. Additionally, Surveillance Operator may require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Surveillance Operator may require 0-1 year of general work experience. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area.