Average Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary in Kentucky
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky earn an impressive average annual salary of $59,600, significantly exceeding the national average of $50,250. This elevated compensation is largely driven by the specialized nature of the role and the robust manufacturing sector within the state, creating a strong demand for skilled professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $59,600 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $70,020.
- Outlook: Kentucky's labor market for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders appears robust, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 860 individuals. The high Location Quotient of 7.62 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these jobs in Kentucky compared to the national average, suggesting strong and sustained demand within the state's industrial landscape.
Salary Overview
The average Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kentucky earns+18.6%above the national average.
$28.7
$1,146
$4,967
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 Kentucky have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends in manufacturing wages. This growth is typically fueled by increasing demand for manufactured goods, advancements in technology requiring skilled operators, and general inflationary pressures.
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in Kentucky
Career progression for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and a proven track record can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $40,230 | $19.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $44,700 | $21.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $59,700 | $28.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $74,500 | $35.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $70,020 | $33.7 |
Detailed Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$59,600
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$66,370
Adjusted for COL (89.8)
The average annual salary of $59,600 in Kentucky presents a compelling financial advantage when considering the local Cost of Living Index of 89.8. This index, which is below the national average of 100, means that the purchasing power of a Forging Machine Setter's salary in Kentucky is higher than the national average, allowing for a greater disposable income and improved quality of life.
Job Market Context
860
Total Jobs
0.433
Per 1K Jobs
7.62
Location Quotient
Kentucky has 7.6x the national concentration of Forging 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 7.62, Kentucky exhibits an exceptionally high concentration of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders relative to the national average. This indicates that the job market in this sector is not only competitive but also abundant, with employers actively seeking and retaining talent in this specialized field, suggesting a favorable environment for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary | $52,660↓ 12% | 72 mi |
Comparing salaries near Kentucky
Hiring Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic make in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for a Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kentucky is $59,600. This typically ranges from $40,230 for entry-level positions to $70,020 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kentucky is 18.6% higher than the national median of $50,250.
Is Kentucky a lucrative place for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
Yes, Kentucky offers a lucrative environment for these professionals.The average salary significantly surpasses the national average, and the lower cost of living further enhances earning potential and quality of life.
Is Kentucky a good place to live for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
With a Cost of Living Index of 89.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Kentucky?
Some top paying nearby cities include Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN ($52,660) and others.
How does Kentucky's average salary compare to the national average for this role?
The average annual salary for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky is $59,600, which is notably higher than the national average of $50,250.
What does the Location Quotient of 7.62 signify for this job in Kentucky?
A Location Quotient of 7.62 means that jobs for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are over 7 times more concentrated in Kentucky than the national average, indicating strong local demand.
How does the cost of living in Kentucky affect the salary for this role?
With a Cost of Living Index of 89.8, Kentucky is more affordable than the national average. This means the $59,600 salary provides greater purchasing power for residents.
What is the total workforce size for this occupation in Kentucky?
There are approximately 860 Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders employed within Kentucky, reflecting a significant segment of the state's manufacturing workforce.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 860 employees in the Kentucky area with a job density of 0.433 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 Kentucky