Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in the West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $40,830. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,630, a common trend in nonmetropolitan regions where operational costs and local economic factors often influence compensation levels. The specific economic landscape of West Kentucky shapes the earning potential for these vital roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $40,830 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $50,990.
- Outlook: The West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area supports a substantial workforce of 960 Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders. This robust local employment base, coupled with a Location Quotient of 2.97, indicates a significantly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a strong and stable demand for these professionals within the region's industrial sector.
Salary Overview
The average Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-6.4%below the national average.
$19.6
$785
$3,403
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 West Kentucky have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving industry demands typically drive incremental increases in compensation for skilled labor in manufacturing and production roles.
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary Distribution in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders typically involves a salary increase with 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 higher salaries, potentially reaching into the upper percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $29,320 | $14.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $30,623 | $14.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $40,700 | $19.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $51,038 | $24.5 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $50,990 | $24.5 |
Detailed Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$40,830
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$40,830
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $40,830 in West Kentucky aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary may be slightly lower than the national average, the purchasing power of this income is comparable to the national standard, offering a stable financial footing for residents.
Job Market Context
960
Total Jobs
7.405
Per 1K Jobs
2.97
Location Quotient
West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has 3.0x 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 2.97, the West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area exhibits a job market that is nearly three times more concentrated in Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders than the national average. This high concentration suggests a specialized and potentially competitive market where these roles are in significant demand relative to the overall workforce.
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↑ 4% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $36,660↓ 10% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $46,930↑ 15% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary | $44,560↑ 9% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders make in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $40,830. This typically ranges from $29,320 for entry-level positions to $50,990 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 6.4% lower than the national median of $43,630.
Is West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $40,830 is below the national average of $43,630, though the cost of living is on par. The high concentration of jobs indicates demand, but not necessarily higher pay.
Is West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders?
The Cost of Living Index in West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($42,280) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the local workforce size impact job availability?
A local workforce of 960 Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders suggests a significant presence of these roles, indicating a stable job market and consistent opportunities within the region's manufacturing and production sectors.
What does a Location Quotient of 2.97 mean for this role?
A Location Quotient of 2.97 signifies that Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders are significantly more prevalent in West Kentucky than the national average, pointing to a specialized industry concentration and potentially higher demand for this specific skill set.
How does the Cost of Living Index affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the national average, the $40,830 salary in West Kentucky offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making the slightly lower nominal wage more competitive in real terms.
Are there opportunities for career growth in this field in West Kentucky?
Yes, like most roles, experience typically leads to higher salaries, with senior operators earning more. The substantial local workforce suggests ongoing demand and potential for advancement within established companies.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 960 employees in the West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 7.405 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 West Kentucky nonmetropolitan area