Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in the Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $42,740. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,630, a common occurrence in regions with a lower cost of living and a specialized industrial base. The specific economic drivers and demand within this particular nonmetropolitan area contribute to this localized compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,740 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $48,080.
- Outlook: The job market for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Southwest Iowa appears robust, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 470 individuals. The high Location Quotient of 2.6 strongly indicates a significant concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent demand and a well-established presence of the industry within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area earns-2.0%below the national average.
$20.6
$822
$3,562
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 Southwest Iowa have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic factors such as inflation, increased demand for packaged goods, and advancements in automation likely contribute to upward pressure on wages in this sector.
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary Distribution in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders typically involves a salary scale that increases with experience and skill. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while senior operators with specialized knowledge, supervisory responsibilities, or expertise in complex machinery can expect significantly higher compensation. The percentile gaps in salary distribution reflect these opportunities for advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $37,040 | $17.8 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $32,055 | $15.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $45,050 | $21.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $53,425 | $25.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $48,080 | $23.1 |
Detailed Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,740
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,740
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $42,740 in Southwest Iowa aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of an operator's salary in this region is equivalent to that of an operator earning the national average in a typical U.S. location, making it a stable financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
470
Total Jobs
6.464
Per 1K Jobs
2.6
Location Quotient
Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area has 2.6x 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.
With a Location Quotient of 2.6, Southwest Iowa boasts a job market for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders that is more than double the national concentration. This signifies a highly specialized and potentially competitive market, where employers may actively seek experienced professionals, and job seekers benefit from a greater abundance of relevant opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Ames, IA Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $43,960↑ 3% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $42,460↓ 1% | 37 mi |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $43,510↑ 2% | 55 mi |
| Cedar Rapids, IA Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $59,610↑ 39% | 79 mi |
| Iowa City, IA Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $38,490↓ 10% | 90 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders make in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is $42,740. This typically ranges from $37,040 for entry-level positions to $48,080 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is 2.0% lower than the national median of $43,630.
Is Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenderss?
Yes, it offers competitive earning potential 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 purchasing power equivalent. The high concentration of these jobs suggests strong regional demand.
Is Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders?
The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Ames, IA ($43,960) and Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA.
How does the local workforce size impact job availability?
A local workforce of 470 indicates a significant pool of talent and established industry presence, suggesting a stable job market with ongoing opportunities for both new entrants and experienced professionals.
What does a Location Quotient of 2.6 mean for this role?
A Location Quotient of 2.6 means that Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders are employed in Southwest Iowa at a rate 2.6 times higher than the national average, indicating a strong regional specialization and demand for these skills.
How does experience affect salary for this role in Southwest Iowa?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases, with entry-level positions earning less than senior operators who possess advanced skills, handle more complex machinery, or take on supervisory duties.
Is the cost of living in Southwest Iowa a factor in the salary?
Yes, the Cost of Living Index of 100 means that the local cost of living is on par with the national average. This suggests that the $42,740 salary provides a comparable standard of living to the national average salary.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 470 employees in the Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 6.464 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area