The average annual salary for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in the U.S. stands at $46,600. This figure aligns precisely with the national average, indicating that compensation in this region is neither significantly higher nor lower than the broader U.S. market. Factors such as the specific industry demand within the U.S. and the overall economic climate likely contribute to this equilibrium.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $46,600 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 4.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,550.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 70,110 individuals in this specialized role, the U.S. presents a significant hub for metal and plastic finishing professionals. While a specific Location Quotient is not provided, the sheer volume of workers suggests a robust and established market for these skills. This large workforce indicates consistent demand and a mature ecosystem for these machine tool operators.
Salary Overview
The average Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in U.S. earns-0.0%below the national average.
$22.4
$896
$3,883
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past four years, it is generally assumed that salaries for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic have experienced a steady upward trend, mirroring broader economic growth and inflation. This progression reflects increased demand for skilled labor in manufacturing and finishing processes, as well as the rising cost of living, which typically drives wage adjustments.
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in U.S.
Career progression for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic typically involves a 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 significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career trajectory and the value placed on expertise in this field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $34,980 | $16.8 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $34,950 | $16.8 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $45,190 | $21.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $58,250 | $28 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $61,550 | $29.6 |
Detailed Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$46,600
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,600
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $46,600 in the U.S. is perfectly balanced by the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is also the national average. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in the U.S. is equivalent to the national average. Consequently, individuals relocating to or residing in the U.S. can expect their earnings to cover living expenses at a standard national rate, without significant financial advantage or disadvantage.
Job Market Context
70,110
Total Jobs
N/A
Per 1K Jobs
N/A
Location Quotient
The absence of a specific Location Quotient (LQ) for this role in the U.S. makes it challenging to definitively assess market competitiveness or abundance relative to the national average. However, given the large total local workforce of 70,110, it suggests a well-established presence of these professionals. This could indicate a stable market with consistent opportunities, though the lack of a specific LQ prevents a precise comparison of concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
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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 U.S.?
The median annual salary for a Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in U.S. is $46,600. This typically ranges from $34,980 for entry-level positions to $61,550 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in U.S. is 0.0% lower than the national median of $46,600.
Is U.S. a lucrative place for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $46,600 in the U.S. matches the national average, and the cost of living is also at the national average. This indicates a standard earning potential rather than a lucrative one.
Is U.S. 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 U.S. is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near U.S.?
Some top paying nearby cities include Tulsa, OK ($40,760) and Wichita, KS.
What is the average salary for this role in the U.S.?
The average annual salary for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in the U.S. is $46,600.
How does the cost of living in the U.S. compare to the national average?
The cost of living in the U.S. is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100.
What is the size of the workforce for this occupation in the U.S.?
The total local workforce for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in the U.S. is 70,110.
Does experience significantly impact salary for this role?
Yes, experience typically leads to higher salaries, with senior roles commanding more than entry-level positions, reflecting increased skill and value.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70,110 employees in the U.S. area with a job density of 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 U.S.