CareersTransportationMachine Operators

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.

CityLocal SalaryCost of LivingReal Purchasing Power
Flint, MIBEST VALUE$76,430Below avg (89.9)$85,037
Cheyenne, WY$61,420Below avg (91.6)$67,036
Albuquerque, NM$60,960Below avg (93.6)$65,109
Hammond, LA$52,660Below avg (87.8)$59,948
Kahului-Wailuku, HI$63,970Above avg (107.2)$59,677
Harrisonburg, VA$55,470Below avg (93.5)$59,315
Lewiston, ID-WA$51,860Below avg (87.9)$59,007
Grand Island, NE$50,030Below avg (87.1)$57,414
Peoria, IL$50,940Below avg (88.8)$57,343
Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL$48,400Below avg (84.5)$57,312
Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ$56,580Average (98.9)$57,206
Glens Falls, NY$53,800Below avg (94.1)$57,202
Minot, ND$50,170Below avg (88.7)$56,572
Topeka, KS$48,560Below avg (85.8)$56,571
Grand Forks, ND-MN$48,390Below 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

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Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)
Material moving machine operators — Salary $47K, AI Risk 4/10 | Job4Migrants