SalariesMachine Operators

Machine Operators Salary in the United States

Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.

The median salary for Machine Operators in the United States is $46,420 per year — about $22 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $40,030 and $54,770 a year.

Median annual salary
$46,420
~$22/hr · ~$3,868/mo
Total US jobs
868K
Slower than average
Education
Varies by employer
Growth: +1%

Salary range

10th %ile
$36,840
25th %ile
$40,030
Median
$46,420
75th %ile
$54,770
90th %ile
$62,520

Top US metros for Machine Operators

MetroLocal salary
Flint, MI$78,530
Cheyenne, WY$62,520
Albuquerque, NM$62,150
Decatur, IL$53,990
Kahului-Wailuku, HI$66,350
Lewiston, ID-WA$53,890
Hammond, LA$53,780
Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL$59,850
Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL$49,610
Fort Collins-Loveland, CO$57,140

Explore the Warehouse Career Hub for FAQs, top cities, and more.

Frequently asked questions

How much do Machine Operators make in the US?

The median salary is $46,420 per year (about $22 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $40,030 and $54,770 a year.

How much do Machine Operators make per hour?

About $22 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $46,420 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).

What education do you need to work as Machine Operators?

Typical entry-level education: Varies by employer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?

No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.

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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. (May 2025 OEWS.)