Industrial Mechanics
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$63,510
~$31/hr · ~$5,293/mo
US Jobs
538K
Much faster than average
AI & Automation Risk
3/10
Low Risk
AI & Automation Risk
Low Risk 3/10
The core of this occupation involves physical labor, manual dexterity, and real-time troubleshooting in unpredictable physical environments, which provides a strong barrier against AI automation. While AI will significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities and predictive maintenance scheduling, the actual repair, installation, and physical manipulation of heavy machinery still require human presence and mechanical skill.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lewiston, ID-WABEST VALUE | $93,770 | Below avg (87.9) | $106,693 |
| Parkersburg-Vienna, WV | $91,430 | Below avg (88.0) | $103,872 |
| Kokomo, IN | $89,250 | Below avg (89.6) | $99,664 |
| Duluth, MN-WI | $81,390 | Below avg (87.2) | $93,357 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | $79,380 | Below avg (85.6) | $92,695 |
| Fairbanks-College, AK | $93,480 | Average (101.2) | $92,372 |
| Wichita, KS | $81,500 | Below avg (89.4) | $91,142 |
| Longview-Kelso, WA | $89,340 | Average (99.3) | $89,960 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL | $80,090 | Below avg (89.2) | $89,824 |
| Lawton, OK | $78,730 | Below avg (88.0) | $89,486 |
| Decatur, IL | $76,040 | Below avg (86.7) | $87,744 |
| Brunswick-St. Simons, GA | $78,610 | Below avg (89.9) | $87,464 |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT | $84,620 | Average (100.7) | $84,036 |
| Peoria, IL | $74,530 | Below avg (88.8) | $83,898 |
| Billings, MT | $75,200 | Below avg (90.3) | $83,232 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
10-Year Growth
+13% (Much faster than average)
Hourly Rate
~$31/hr
Monthly Income
~$5,293/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)