Average Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary in California
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in California earn an impressive average annual salary of $59,120, significantly surpassing the national average of $50,250. This elevated compensation is largely driven by California's robust industrial sector and the specialized skills required for metal and plastic forging operations within the state.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $59,120 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 31.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $78,950.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 480 individuals and a Location Quotient of 0.47, the demand for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in California appears stable but not exceptionally concentrated compared to national levels. While the absolute number of jobs per 1,000 workers is low at 0.026, the existing workforce suggests a consistent need for these skilled professionals within the state's manufacturing landscape.
Salary Overview
The average Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in California earns+17.7%above the national average.
$28.4
$1,137
$4,927
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in California have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring general wage inflation and increasing demand for skilled manufacturing labor. This upward trend is likely influenced by technological advancements in forging processes and the ongoing need for experienced personnel to operate and maintain sophisticated machinery.
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in California
Experience plays a crucial role in the earning potential for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders. Entry-level positions typically offer salaries closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive expertise and specialized certifications can command significantly higher compensation. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify career progression, rewarding accumulated knowledge and operational proficiency.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $40,420 | $19.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $44,340 | $21.3 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $57,620 | $27.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $73,900 | $35.5 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $78,950 | $38 |
Detailed Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$59,120
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,686
Adjusted for COL (138.5)
While the average annual salary of $59,120 in California is attractive, it must be considered in the context of the state's high Cost of Living Index of 138.5. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is somewhat diminished compared to areas with a lower cost of living, requiring careful financial planning for individuals relocating to or residing in California.
Job Market Context
480
Total Jobs
0.026
Per 1K Jobs
0.47
Location Quotient
At 0.47x, California has a notably lower concentration of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
A Location Quotient of 0.47 indicates that Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are less concentrated in California than the national average. This suggests that while there is a presence of these roles, the market is not saturated, and opportunities may be more specialized or tied to specific industrial hubs within the state, potentially leading to competitive hiring for qualified candidates.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic make in California?
The median annual salary for a Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in California is $59,120. This typically ranges from $40,420 for entry-level positions to $78,950 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in California is 17.7% higher than the national median of $50,250.
Is California a lucrative place for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
Yes, California offers a lucrative environment for these professionals.The average salary of $59,120 significantly exceeds the national average, providing strong earning potential despite the higher cost of living.
Is California a good place to live for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
The Cost of Living Index in California is 138.5. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does California's average salary compare to the national average for this role?
The average annual salary in California is $59,120, which is notably higher than the national average of $50,250 for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for this role in California?
An LQ of 0.47 suggests that the concentration of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in California is less than the national average, indicating a potentially less saturated but more specialized job market.
How does the cost of living affect the real value of the salary in California?
With a Cost of Living Index of 138.5, the higher nominal salary in California is somewhat offset by increased expenses, meaning the purchasing power is lower than the salary might initially suggest.
What is the total local workforce size for this occupation in California?
The total local workforce for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in California is approximately 480 individuals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 480 employees in the California area with a job density of 0.026 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in California