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Average Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary in Altoona, PA

In Altoona, PA, Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders earn an average annual salary of $38,130. This figure is notably below the national average of $43,630. Local economic factors, including the specific industrial landscape and demand within the Altoona region, contribute to this divergence in compensation.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $38,130 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.6% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $48,530.
  • Outlook: The packaging and filling machine operator sector in Altoona, PA, demonstrates a significant concentration, with a Location Quotient of 3.56, indicating a demand far exceeding the national average. With a local workforce of 510 individuals in this role and 8.858 jobs per 1,000 workers, the market suggests a robust and specialized demand for these professionals within the region.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$38,130

The average Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Altoona, PA earns-12.6%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$18.3

Weekly

$733

Monthly

$3,178

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA

Salary progression for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders typically scales 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 opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within this field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$29,450$14.2
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$28,598$13.7
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$34,480$16.6
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$47,663$22.9
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$48,530$23.3

Detailed Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$38,130

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$38,130

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $38,130 in Altoona, PA, aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary locally is comparable to the national standard, making the take-home pay's value relatively stable.

Job Market Context

510

Total Jobs

8.858

Per 1K Jobs

3.56

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Altoona, PA has 3.6x the national concentration of Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

Altoona, PA, exhibits a highly concentrated market for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders, as evidenced by a Location Quotient of 3.56. This significantly elevated quotient suggests that this profession is disproportionately represented in Altoona compared to the rest of the nation, indicating a strong local industry presence and potentially higher demand relative to the available workforce.

Nearby Job Markets

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders make in Altoona, PA?

The median annual salary for a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Altoona, PA is $38,130. This typically ranges from $29,450 for entry-level positions to $48,530 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 12.6% lower than the national median of $43,630.

Is Altoona, PA a lucrative place for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenderss?

No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $38,130 is below the national average of $43,630. However, the high concentration of jobs suggests strong local demand.

Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders?

The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($44,860) and State College, PA.

What is the average salary for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Altoona, PA?

The average annual salary for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Altoona, PA, is $38,130.

How does Altoona's salary compare to the national average?

The average salary in Altoona ($38,130) is lower than the national average ($43,630) for this role.

Is there high demand for this role in Altoona?

Yes, the Location Quotient of 3.56 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these jobs in Altoona compared to the national average, suggesting strong local demand.

How does the cost of living in Altoona affect the salary?

Altoona's cost of living is at the national average (100), meaning the $38,130 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being lower nominally.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 510 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 8.858 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.