Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $42,750. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,630, a common trend in nonmetropolitan regions where operational costs and industry concentration can influence compensation structures. The specific economic dynamics and employer demands within this area shape the prevailing wage for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,750 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $55,810.
- Outlook: The job market for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area appears robust, indicated by a substantial local workforce of 1,750 individuals. The exceptionally high Location Quotient of 4.08 signifies a significantly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a specialized industry presence within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-2.0%below the national average.
$20.6
$822
$3,563
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic factors such as inflation, increased demand for packaged goods, and evolving automation technologies likely contribute to upward pressure on wages, ensuring that compensation keeps pace with the cost of living and industry advancements.
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary Distribution in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders typically involves a salary increase with accumulated experience. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior operators with specialized skills and extensive experience can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings within this occupation clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential as professionals develop their expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $35,820 | $17.2 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $32,063 | $15.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $37,390 | $18 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $53,438 | $25.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $55,810 | $26.8 |
Detailed Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,750
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,750
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $42,750 in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the local salary is comparable to the national standard, offering a stable financial environment for residents. Individuals relocating to this area can expect their earnings to cover essential expenses at a rate consistent with the broader national economy.
Job Market Context
1,750
Total Jobs
10.165
Per 1K Jobs
4.08
Location Quotient
South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has 4.1x 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.
The Location Quotient of 4.08 for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area indicates a highly concentrated job market. This significantly elevated quotient suggests that these roles are disproportionately prevalent in this region compared to the rest of the country, pointing to a specialized industrial base or a strong demand for these skills locally. The market is therefore abundant with opportunities for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $42,280↓ 1% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $36,660↓ 14% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $46,930↑ 10% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $44,560↑ 4% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenderss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders make in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $42,750. This typically ranges from $35,820 for entry-level positions to $55,810 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 2.0% lower than the national median of $43,630.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenderss?
Yes, it offers competitive compensation relative to its cost of living.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, making the effective purchasing power comparable. The high concentration of these jobs suggests strong local demand.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders?
The Cost of Living Index in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($42,280) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the local salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in South Central Kentucky is $42,750, which is slightly lower than the national average of $43,630.
What does the Location Quotient of 4.08 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient of 4.08 signifies that this region has over four times the national average concentration of Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders jobs, indicating a strong local demand and specialized market.
How does the Cost of Living Index affect the salary's value?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the national average, the $42,750 salary in South Central Kentucky offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a stable financial proposition.
What is the total number of Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in the area?
There are approximately 1,750 Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders employed in the South Central Kentucky 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 1,750 employees in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 10.165 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salaries by State
Top Jobs in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- All Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Production Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Management Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Healthcare Support Occupations Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
- Browse All Jobs in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area