Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery and Components

Updated on January 31, 2024

The industrial machinery/components sector is a vital part of the manufacturing industry, responsible for producing the machinery and components essential for various production processes. This field offers a wide range of career opportunities, from hands-on technical roles to management positions. In this blog, we explore the top-paying jobs in this sector, highlighting job titles, average salaries, responsibilities, and required education for each role.

Operations Manager

  • Average Salary: $100,090/year​
  • Job Description: Operations managers oversee day-to-day activities, ensuring operations align with organizational goals. They focus on process optimization, resource management, and productivity enhancement.
  • Responsibilities: Coordinate departments, improve operational processes, and drive performance.
  • Required Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Crane Operator

  • Average Salary: $51,050/year​
  • Job Description: Crane operators handle cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials and equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
  • Responsibilities: Operate cranes, follow safety protocols, and contribute to project completion.
  • Required Education: High school diploma.

Industrial Machine Mechanic

  • Average Salary: $59,470/year​
  • Job Description: These mechanics are tasked with maintaining and repairing industrial machinery, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
  • Responsibilities: Install, maintain, and repair machinery and equipment.
  • Required Education: High school diploma.

Pipefitter

  • Average Salary: $60,090/year​
  • Job Description: Pipefitters install and maintain piping systems that carry various substances, adhering to safety standards.
  • Responsibilities: Assemble and maintain piping systems.
  • Required Education: High school diploma.

Industrial Designer

  • Average Salary: $75,910/year​
  • Job Description: Industrial designers create concepts and designs for manufactured products, focusing on functionality and user needs.
  • Responsibilities: Develop product designs, prototype, and ensure manufacturability.
  • Required Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Robotics Engineer

  • Average Salary: $96,310/year​
  • Job Description: Robotics engineers design and test robotic systems to automate tasks and improve efficiency in various applications.
  • Responsibilities: Develop robotic systems, program, and optimize performance.
  • Required Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Quality Assurance Inspector

  • Average Salary: $43,900/year​
  • Job Description: Inspectors ensure products meet quality standards and specifications, maintaining high-quality production.
  • Responsibilities: Examine products, identify defects, and maintain quality records.
  • Required Education: High school diploma.

Human Resources Manager

  • Average Salary: $130,000/year​
  • Job Description: HR managers oversee recruitment, hiring, and management of employees, developing HR policies and resolving workplace issues.
  • Responsibilities: Implement HR policies, manage employee relations, and support workforce productivity.
  • Required Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Warehouse Worker

  • Average Salary: $34,960/year​
  • Job Description: Warehouse workers are responsible for the efficient handling and distribution of goods within a warehouse.
  • Responsibilities: Receive, store, and distribute goods, manage inventory, and ensure efficient shipment.
  • Required Education: High school diploma.

Industrial Production Manager

  • Average Salary: $107,560/year​
  • Job Description: These managers oversee manufacturing plant operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality standards.
  • Responsibilities: Coordinate production activities, monitor output, and implement productivity strategies.
  • Required Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Final Thoughts

The industrial machinery/components sector offers rewarding career paths for individuals with diverse educational backgrounds and skill sets. From hands-on technical roles like crane operators and pipefitters to strategic positions like operations and industrial production managers, the opportunities for advancement and competitive compensation are significant. Pursuing a career in this field requires a combination of technical skills, practical experience, and, in some cases, formal education. As technology evolves, roles in robotics, automation, and design are becoming increasingly important, highlighting the need for continuous learning and adaptability in this dynamic industry.

Other Jobs in Industrial and Manufacturing Sectors

Sources

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Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

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