In Columbus, OH, Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn an average annual salary of $43,340. This figure is slightly below the national average of $46,600, indicating a localized compensation structure influenced by regional economic factors and industry demand within the state. The specific pay rates in Columbus reflect the balance between the skilled labor available and the operational needs of manufacturing and metalworking industries present in the area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $43,340 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $51,260.
- Outlook: The market for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Columbus, OH, shows a steady presence with a total local workforce of 450 individuals. The Location Quotient of 0.92 suggests that this occupation is nearly as concentrated in Columbus as it is nationally, indicating a stable, albeit not exceptionally high, demand for these specialized roles within the local economy. With 0.419 jobs per 1,000 workers, the market is neither saturated nor critically undersupplied, pointing to consistent employment opportunities.
Salary Overview
The average Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Columbus, OH earns-7.0%below the national average.
$20.8
$833
$3,612
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this niche role in Columbus is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring broader economic recovery and inflation. As manufacturing and related industries adapt to new technologies and market demands, the compensation for skilled machine tool operators has likely seen incremental increases, reflecting the evolving skill requirements and the ongoing need for experienced personnel in metal and plastic fabrication.
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in Columbus, OH
Career progression for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Columbus, OH, typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and a proven track record can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings, from the 25th to the 75th percentile and beyond, clearly signify the substantial career advancement and earning potential available to those who develop expertise and take on more complex responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $36,080 | $17.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $32,505 | $15.6 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $41,330 | $19.9 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $54,175 | $26 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $51,260 | $24.6 |
Detailed Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$43,340
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$43,340
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $43,340 in Columbus, OH, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in Columbus is equivalent to the national average, offering a balanced financial landscape for residents. While the salary is slightly below the national average for the profession, the cost of living parity ensures that the take-home pay effectively covers essential expenses and allows for a comparable standard of living to that found in other average-cost areas across the country.
Job Market Context
450
Total Jobs
0.419
Per 1K Jobs
0.92
Location Quotient
Columbus, OH has 0.92x the national average concentration of Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
With a Location Quotient of 0.92, the job market for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Columbus, OH, is nearly on par with the national average in terms of concentration. This indicates a stable and moderately competitive environment; the occupation is well-represented but not overwhelmingly dominant within the local employment landscape. Employers can expect a consistent pool of qualified candidates, and job seekers will find a reasonable number of opportunities without facing extreme competition.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Comparing salaries near Columbus, OH
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic make in Columbus, OH?
The median annual salary for a Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Columbus, OH is $43,340. This typically ranges from $36,080 for entry-level positions to $51,260 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbus, OH is 7.0% lower than the national median of $46,600.
Is Columbus, OH a lucrative place for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
No, it is not exceptionally lucrative but offers stable opportunities.The average salary of $43,340 is slightly below the national average, but the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power comparable. The stable Location Quotient suggests consistent demand without high competition.
Is Columbus, OH a good place to live for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbus, OH is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Columbus, OH?
Some top paying nearby cities include North Northeastern Ohio nonmetropolitan area (noncontiguous) ($42,530) and West Northwestern Ohio nonmetropolitan area.
How does experience affect salary for this role in Columbus, OH?
Experience significantly impacts earnings, with senior operators commanding higher salaries than entry-level positions, reflecting increased skill, efficiency, and responsibility.
What is the job outlook for Metal Polishers in Columbus, OH?
The outlook is stable, with a local workforce of 450 and a Location Quotient near the national average, indicating consistent demand and employment opportunities.
Is the cost of living high in Columbus, OH for this profession?
No, the cost of living in Columbus, OH, is exactly at the national average (100), meaning your salary has average purchasing power.
How does Columbus compare to the national average salary for this job?
The average salary in Columbus ($43,340) is slightly lower than the national average ($46,600), but this is offset by the equivalent cost of living.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 450 employees in the Columbus, OH area with a job density of 0.419 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbus, OH