In the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area, Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn an average annual salary of $42,610. This figure is notably below the national average of $47,060, reflecting regional economic factors and the specific demand within this localized manufacturing sector. The concentration of these roles in the area significantly influences the prevailing wage scales.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,610 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $48,690.
- Outlook: The job market for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Central Kentucky appears robust, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 1,070 individuals. The exceptionally high Location Quotient of 5.45 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a specialized industrial base that relies heavily on this skilled labor.
Salary Overview
The average Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-9.5%below the national average.
$20.5
$819
$3,551
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries for skilled manufacturing roles like Metal Press Operators over the past four years, mirroring national economic recovery and inflation. Increased automation and evolving production techniques likely contribute to a steady or growing demand, potentially leading to modest salary increases as employers compete for experienced talent.
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders typically sees a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned operators with specialized skills and a proven track record can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify the value placed on expertise and seniority within this trade.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $36,720 | $17.7 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $31,958 | $15.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $41,920 | $20.2 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $53,263 | $25.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $48,690 | $23.4 |
Detailed Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,610
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,610
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $42,610 in Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary locally is comparable to the national standard, making the effective take-home value of the earnings stable relative to national expenses.
Job Market Context
1,070
Total Jobs
6.164
Per 1K Jobs
5.45
Location Quotient
Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has 5.5x the national concentration of Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a Location Quotient of 5.45, Central Kentucky exhibits a highly concentrated market for Metal Press Machine Operators. This indicates that the region is a significant hub for this specific industry, with jobs being disproportionately more common here than in the rest of the country. This high concentration suggests a competitive environment for employers seeking talent but also offers ample opportunities for skilled workers within this niche.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Comparing salaries near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic make in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $42,610. This typically ranges from $36,720 for entry-level positions to $48,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 9.5% lower than the national median of $47,060.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
No, not compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the nominal salary of $42,610 is below the national average of $47,060. However, the high concentration of these jobs suggests strong local demand.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
The Cost of Living Index in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($51,540) and Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN.
What is the average salary for this role in Central Kentucky?
The average annual salary for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $42,610.
How does the Central Kentucky salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Central Kentucky ($42,610) is lower than the national average ($47,060) for this occupation.
What does the Location Quotient of 5.45 mean for this job in Central Kentucky?
A Location Quotient of 5.45 signifies that this job is over 5 times more concentrated in Central Kentucky than the national average, indicating a specialized and strong local industry presence.
How does the Cost of Living in Central Kentucky affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100 (matching the national average), the $42,610 salary in Central Kentucky offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being nominally lower than the national salary.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,070 employees in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 6.164 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area