As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Operator I in the United States is $40,919 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $20.
However, a Machine Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Operator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Operator I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Operator I | 0-1 years | $40,919 |
| Machine Operator II | 1-3 years | $45,471 |
| Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $51,579 |
| Machine Operator IV | 5-7 years | $55,465 |
| Machine Operator Supervisor | 7+ years | $80,495 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Machine Operator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 3.86% |
| Machine Operation | 3.15% |
| Container | 2.29% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
CNC
|
$43,783 |
7%
|
|
Accountability
|
$42,556 |
4%
|
|
SOP
|
$42,147 |
3%
|
|
Dedication
|
$42,147 |
3%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$41,737 |
2%
|
|
ISO
|
$41,737 |
2%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Machine Operator Is enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Machine Operator I with a No Diploma is between $37,041 and $39,424).
Machine Operator I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 10.4% |
| High School | 69.8% |
| Associates | 12.5% |
| Bachelors | 7.3% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Machine Operator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Machine Operator I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Extrusion Operator, Sr. | $54,554 | 33% |
| Injection Molding Machine Operator II | $48,496 | 19% |
| Machine Operator II | $45,471 | 11% |
| Milling Machine Operator II | $46,867 | 15% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Machine Operator I and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Machine Operator I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Machine Operator I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Machine Operator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Machine Operator I is $51,611.
The highest pay for Machine Operator I is $46,912.
The lowest pay for Machine Operator I is $34,462.
Sets up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Uses computer-controlled equipment to select position and secure automatic or semi-automatic machines. Controls and adjusts machine settings to complete simple tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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