Machine Operators
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$46,620
~$22/hr · ~$3,885/mo
US Jobs
868K
Slower than average
AI & Automation Risk
4/10
Low Risk
AI & Automation Risk
Low Risk 4/10
The core of the job is physical operation of heavy machinery in dynamic environments like warehouses and construction sites, which provides a buffer against full automation. However, AI-driven computer vision and autonomous navigation are increasingly being integrated into forklifts and conveyor systems, leading to moderate exposure as these technologies augment or replace human operators in structured settings.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flint, MIBEST VALUE | $76,430 | Below avg (89.9) | $85,037 |
| Cheyenne, WY | $61,420 | Below avg (91.6) | $67,036 |
| Albuquerque, NM | $60,960 | Below avg (93.6) | $65,109 |
| Hammond, LA | $52,660 | Below avg (87.8) | $59,948 |
| Kahului-Wailuku, HI | $63,970 | Above avg (107.2) | $59,677 |
| Harrisonburg, VA | $55,470 | Below avg (93.5) | $59,315 |
| Lewiston, ID-WA | $51,860 | Below avg (87.9) | $59,007 |
| Grand Island, NE | $50,030 | Below avg (87.1) | $57,414 |
| Peoria, IL | $50,940 | Below avg (88.8) | $57,343 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL | $48,400 | Below avg (84.5) | $57,312 |
| Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | $56,580 | Average (98.9) | $57,206 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $53,800 | Below avg (94.1) | $57,202 |
| Minot, ND | $50,170 | Below avg (88.7) | $56,572 |
| Topeka, KS | $48,560 | Below avg (85.8) | $56,571 |
| Grand Forks, ND-MN | $48,390 | Below avg (85.9) | $56,327 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Varies by employer
10-Year Growth
+1% (Slower than average)
Hourly Rate
~$22/hr
Monthly Income
~$3,885/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)