In the Kansas nonmetropolitan area, Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn an average annual salary of $41,580. This figure is notably below the national average of $46,600, reflecting the economic dynamics and potentially lower cost structures prevalent in nonmetropolitan regions compared to national urban centers.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $41,580 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 21.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $49,770.
- Outlook: The local job market for these metalworking specialists in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area appears moderately concentrated, with a total workforce of 270 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.57 indicates a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, demand within this specific geographic niche.
Salary Overview
The average Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kansas nonmetropolitan area earns-10.8%below the national average.
$20
$800
$3,465
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool 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 Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area have seen gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and inflation adjustments. This steady progression likely reflects ongoing industry needs and a commitment to retaining skilled labor.
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in Kansas nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for these machine tool operators typically correlates with increased earning potential. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings often signify the value placed on expertise and years of dedicated service in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $31,290 | $15 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $31,185 | $15 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $40,840 | $19.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $51,975 | $25 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $49,770 | $23.9 |
Detailed Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$41,580
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$41,580
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $41,580 in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area aligns perfectly with the national Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of this salary is equivalent to the national average, suggesting that while the take-home pay is lower than the national average, the cost of essential goods and services is also at par, offering a balanced financial standing.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
0.712
Per 1K Jobs
1.57
Location Quotient
Kansas nonmetropolitan area has 1.6x the national concentration of Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool 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 1.57, the Kansas nonmetropolitan area exhibits a higher concentration of Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic than the national average. This suggests a more specialized and potentially competitive market for these roles within the region, indicating that employers may have a slightly easier time finding qualified candidates compared to national benchmarks.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita, KS Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary | $43,590↑ 5% | 67 mi |
Comparing salaries near Kansas nonmetropolitan area
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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 Kansas nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kansas nonmetropolitan area is $41,580. This typically ranges from $31,290 for entry-level positions to $49,770 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kansas nonmetropolitan area is 10.8% lower than the national median of $46,600.
Is Kansas nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to national averages.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $41,580 is below the national average of $46,600, indicating less earning potential in this specific role within the region.
Is Kansas nonmetropolitan area 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 Kansas nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Kansas nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Wichita, KS ($43,590) and others.
How does the local workforce size impact job opportunities?
A local workforce of 270 suggests a niche market. While not massive, it indicates a consistent need for these specialized skills within the Kansas nonmetropolitan area.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.57 signify?
A Location Quotient of 1.57 means this profession is 57% more concentrated in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area than the national average, implying a stronger regional presence and demand for these specific skills.
How does the Cost of Living Index affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the salary of $41,580 has the same purchasing power as the national average. This means that while the nominal salary is lower, the expenses are also comparable to the national average.
Are there many job openings for Metal Polishers in this area?
The data indicates 0.712 jobs per 1,000 workers, suggesting a moderate availability of positions relative to the overall employment landscape in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Kansas nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 0.712 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 Kansas nonmetropolitan area