Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky are earning an impressive average annual salary of $54,170, substantially higher than the national average of $48,590. This elevated pay is largely driven by the state's robust manufacturing sector and a concentrated demand for these specialized skills, creating a favorable economic environment for these professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $54,170 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 28.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $77,730.
- Outlook: Kentucky boasts a substantial workforce of 5,950 individuals in Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender roles, indicating a significant presence in the manufacturing landscape. The exceptionally high Location Quotient of 3.54 underscores a strong concentration of these jobs relative to the national average, suggesting robust and sustained demand within the state's industrial economy.
Salary Overview
The average Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kentucky earns+11.5%above the national average.
$26
$1,042
$4,514
Multiple 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 Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends in manufacturing and skilled trades. This anticipated upward trajectory reflects increasing industry demand, technological advancements, and a growing recognition of the value these roles bring to the state's economic output.
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Distribution in Kentucky
Salary progression for Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders is strongly tied to experience and skill specialization. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with expertise in advanced machinery and complex operations command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in compensation clearly signify the career progression opportunities available, rewarding accumulated knowledge and proficiency.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $38,210 | $18.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $40,628 | $19.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $49,570 | $23.8 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $67,713 | $32.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $77,730 | $37.4 |
Detailed Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$54,170
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$60,323
Adjusted for COL (89.8)
The average annual salary of $54,170 in Kentucky presents a strong financial advantage when considered against 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 Machine Tool Setter's salary in Kentucky is greater than in many other parts of the country, allowing for a higher standard of living.
Job Market Context
5,950
Total Jobs
2.985
Per 1K Jobs
3.54
Location Quotient
Kentucky has 3.5x the national concentration of Multiple 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 3.54, Kentucky exhibits a highly concentrated market for Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, far exceeding the national average. This indicates that the demand for these roles is significantly more pronounced in Kentucky than nationally, suggesting a competitive environment for employers seeking talent and a favorable landscape for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Comparing salaries near Kentucky
Hiring Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic make in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for a Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kentucky is $54,170. This typically ranges from $38,210 for entry-level positions to $77,730 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kentucky is 11.5% higher than the national median of $48,590.
Is Kentucky a lucrative place for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics?
Yes, Kentucky offers a lucrative environment for these professionals.The average salary of $54,170 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 Multiple Machine Tool 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 Lexington-Fayette, KY ($52,850) and Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN.
How does Kentucky's concentration of Machine Tool Setters compare to the national average?
Kentucky's Location Quotient of 3.54 is exceptionally high, indicating that the concentration of Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender roles is more than three and a half times the national average, signifying a very strong local demand.
What is the significance of the jobs per 1,000 workers metric?
The 2.985 jobs per 1,000 workers metric shows that for every thousand individuals in the general workforce in Kentucky, nearly three are employed as Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, highlighting the role's prevalence.
How does the cost of living in Kentucky affect the Machine Tool Setter salary?
Kentucky's cost of living index of 89.8, being below the national average, means that the $54,170 salary provides greater purchasing power, making it more financially advantageous than earning the same nominal amount in a higher cost-of-living area.
What does the large local workforce suggest about job availability?
A local workforce of 5,950 suggests a mature and established industry for Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders in Kentucky, likely indicating consistent job opportunities and a stable market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,950 employees in the Kentucky area with a job density of 2.985 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Kentucky