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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Ames, IA

Manufacturing Headhunters uses the published BLS OEWS figures below. They describe the mapped occupation and area, not an individual offer.

This is what we do all day: recruit manufacturing professionals.

BLS published a median for 320 of our 368 roles here. Ranking uses exact published annual medians only. Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.

  1. CEO / President (Manufacturing)$206,090
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$206,090
  3. Senior Director of Operations$206,090
  4. Regulatory Affairs Manager$138,110
  5. EHS Manager$138,110
  6. EHS Director$138,110
  7. Safety Manager$138,110
  8. Environmental Manager$138,110
  9. Process Safety Manager$138,110
  10. S&OP Manager$138,110
  11. Trade Compliance Manager$138,110
  12. Service / Aftermarket Manager$138,110
  13. Environmental Engineer$138,110
  14. Sustainability Manager / Director$138,110
  15. Senior EHS Manager$138,110
  16. EHS Coordinator$138,110
  17. Director of Planning$138,110
  18. Plant HR Manager$137,390
  19. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$137,010
  20. Process Engineering Manager$137,010
  21. Controls / Automation Manager$137,010
  22. VP of Engineering$137,010
  23. Director of R&D$137,010
  24. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$137,010
  25. NPI Manager$137,010

Bars show the top 25 of 320 ranked. The table below lists all 320. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Ames, IA, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$132,020$206,090$294,8401101.43
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$132,020$206,090$294,8401101.43
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$132,020$206,090$294,8401101.43
4Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
5EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
6EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
7Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
8Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
9Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
10S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
11Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
12Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
13Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
14Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
15Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
16EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
17Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$95,280$138,110$168,0201200.54
18Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$116,350$137,390$163,280600.74
19Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
20Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
21Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
22VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
23Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
24Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
25NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
26Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
27Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
28Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
29Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
30Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
31Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
32Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
33R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
34R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
35Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
36Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
37Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$131,650$137,010$155,210901.14
38VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
39Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
40Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
41National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
42Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
43National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
44Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
45Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
46Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
47Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
48Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
49Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
50Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
51Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,690$133,150$172,4101100.46
52PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$100,120$129,440$147,6904700.77
53MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$100,120$129,440$147,6904700.77
54SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$100,120$129,440$147,6904700.77
55Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$100,120$129,440$147,6904700.77
56Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$100,120$129,440$147,6904700.77
57CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
58Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
59Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
60VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
61Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
62Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
63FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
64Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
65Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$98,800$124,010$167,7602200.73
66Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
67Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
68Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
69Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
70Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
71Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
72Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
73Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
74Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
75VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
76Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
77Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
78QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
79Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
80Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
81FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
82FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
83Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
84QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
85Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
86Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
87Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
88Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
89Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
90Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
91Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
92Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
93QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
94Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
95CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
96Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
97Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
98Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$93,140$113,930$143,6701201.39
99VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
100Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
101Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
102Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
103Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
104Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
105Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
106Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
107Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
108Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
109Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
110Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
111Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
112Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,190$104,930$121,330600.74
113Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
114Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
115Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
116Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
117Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
118Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
119Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
120Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
121Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,160$103,750$127,760400.51
122Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
123Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
124Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
125Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
126Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
127Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
128Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
129Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
130Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
131Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
132Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
133CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,440$98,610$106,0801201.11
134VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
135VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
136Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
137General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
138Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
139EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
140Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
141Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,510$97,700$143,8401,0400.82
142Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$80,280$97,290$126,9402600.68
143Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$80,280$97,290$126,9402600.68
144Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
145Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
146Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
147Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
148Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
149Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$81,950$95,260$114,830500.81
150QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$66,690$93,720$142,1401101.74
151Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$73,380$88,910$113,6901101.92
152Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$73,380$88,910$113,6901101.92
153Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$73,380$88,910$113,6901101.92
154Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
155Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
156Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
157Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
158Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
159Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
160Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
161Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
162Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
163Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
164Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
165Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
166Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
167Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
168Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
169Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
170Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
171Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
172Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
173Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
174Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
175Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
176Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
177Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
178Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
179Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
180EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
181VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
182Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
183Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
184Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
185Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
186Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
187Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
188Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,670$88,650$107,2201401.04
189Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$67,620$84,300$108,010401.37
190Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$75,180$82,970$95,820701.35
191Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$75,180$82,970$95,820701.35
192Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$75,180$82,970$95,820701.35
193Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$65,300$80,370$92,1901601.07
194Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$65,300$80,370$92,1901601.07
195Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$65,300$80,370$92,1901601.07
196Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,960$79,320$98,1005301.02
197Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,960$79,320$98,1005301.02
198Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,960$79,320$98,1005301.02
199Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,960$79,320$98,1005301.02
200Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
201Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
202Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
203Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
204Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
205Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
206Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
207Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
208Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,400$79,080$94,4402200.97
209Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
210Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
211Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
212Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
213Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
214CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
215Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
216Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,420$74,160$84,9403001.22
217Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
218Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
219Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
220Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
221CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
222Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
223Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
224Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
225Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
226Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
227Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
228Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
229Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
230Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
231Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
232Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
233Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
234Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
235Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$53,020$70,690$72,500700.76
236Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$57,600$68,880$82,8901801.03
237Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
238Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
239Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
240Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
241Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
242Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
243Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
244Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
245Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
246Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
247Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
248Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
249Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
250Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
251Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
252Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
253End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
254Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,190$67,250$79,1801500.96
255Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$48,000$63,320$79,0302100.77
256GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$52,850$62,300$63,140801.52
257Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$52,850$62,300$63,140801.52
258Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
259Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
260CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
261Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
262Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
263First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
264Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
265Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
266Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
267Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
268Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
269Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$49,470$61,820$64,9802401.11
270Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
271Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
272Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
273Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
274Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
275Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,470$60,800$65,7101400.97
276Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$49,840$60,430$73,5401901.29
277CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
2785-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
279Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
280CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
281Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
282Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
283EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
284CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
285Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
286Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
287Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
288Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
289Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$59,200$60,200$61,860600.55
290Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
291TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
292Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
293Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
294Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
295Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
296Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
297Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
298Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
299Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
300Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
301Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,250$58,560$60,3101701.1
302Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$49,560$58,270$70,6201800.79
303Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$49,560$58,270$70,6201800.79
304Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$44,720$48,310$54,4901100.4
305Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
306Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
307Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
308Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
309Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
310Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
311Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,150$47,840$52,6802100.72
312CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$46,120$47,330$53,620500.84
313Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$35,250$46,850$65,7701502.8
314Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$43,520$43,520$43,520502.01
315Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,080$39,080$46,660901.02
316Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,080$39,080$46,660901.02
317SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,080$39,080$46,660901.02
318Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,080$39,080$46,660901.02
319Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$32,380$35,300$39,3101,0301.29
320Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$32,380$35,300$39,3101,0301.29

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Materials Engineer, Metallurgist / Metallurgical Engineer, Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Food Scientist, Purchasing Manager, Strategic Sourcing Manager, Sales Engineer, CNC Programmer, Tool and Die Maker, Mold Maker, Robotic Welding Technician, Press Brake Operator, Die Setter (Stamping), Electromechanical / Mechatronics Technician, Millwright, PLC / Controls Technician, Robotics Technician, Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technician, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Injection Molding Technician, Extrusion Technician, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Semiconductor Equipment Technician, Calibration Technician, NDT Technician, QC Lab Technician, Overhead Crane Operator & Rigger, Procurement Manager, Polymer / Plastics Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Product Development Scientist, Director of Procurement, Commodity Manager, Inside Sales Engineer, Proposal / Quotation Engineer, Electronics Test Technician, Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter), Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device), Senior Electronics Test Technician, Lead Mechanical Assembler, Control Room (DCS) Operator.

State figures for Iowa

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Ames, IA. Official area tables. Released 2026-05-15. LQ is employment concentration, not a wage index.

Reading this wage estimate

What does this data mean for your opening?

Ames manufacturing presents distinct compensation profiles for key leadership roles, notably with the CEO / President median at $206,090. This reflects a significant median change of $37,520 from the previous year. Nationally, the median for this broader occupational category is $213,990.

Our team at Manufacturing Headhunters notes the local P25 of $132,020 and P75 of $294,840 define a substantial middle-band width of $162,820, reflecting the unique demands of local industrial leadership.

Regulatory Affairs Managers in Ames earn a median of $138,110, which is slightly below the national median of $141,900. This position reports a middle-band width of $72,740, providing a clear scope for salary negotiations within the metro. Employment levels remain moderate at 120, with a location quotient of 0.54, indicating this is a specialized but niche role. Managers should consider that this data reflects broader industry benchmarks, as specific manufacturing-only figures are unavailable.

Plant HR Managers in this region command a median of $137,390, contrasted with a national median of $149,280. The local middle-band width of $46,930 suggests a tighter salary bracket for these professionals compared to the national $88,180. With 60 employees in this occupation locally, competition for experienced HR leadership remains driven by individual plant size and specific human resource functions rather than broad market trends alone.

Electronics assemblers and sanitation technicians represent the backbone of local production operations. Assemblers earn a median of $39,080, lower than the national $45,850. Meanwhile, sanitation workers show a median of $35,300, compared to the $36,840 national figure. These roles display low middle-band widths of $7,580 and $6,930, respectively, indicating consistency in pay. Local employment concentrations for these roles are 1.02 and 1.29, respectively, showing stable demand in the Ames manufacturing sector.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

Related recruiting or pay page · Related wage comparison 1 · Related wage comparison 2 · Related wage comparison 3 · Related wage comparison 4 · Related wage comparison 5 · Related wage comparison 6 · Related wage comparison 7 · Related wage comparison 8 · Related wage comparison 9 · Data methodology

How has the median CEO pay in Ames changed?

The CEO median increased by $37,520 compared to the May 2024 reference period. This significant shift highlights the dynamic nature of local executive compensation.

What is the primary difference between local and national medians for Regulatory Affairs Managers?

The Ames median is $138,110, while the national median is $141,900. This shows the local market is slightly below the national average for this occupation.

Are the sanitation technician wages consistent locally?

Yes, with a middle-band width of $6,930, pay for sanitation technicians in Ames is relatively consistent. This allows for predictable budget planning for local manufacturing operations.

Related recruiting or pay page · Related wage comparison 1 · Related wage comparison 2 · Related wage comparison 3 · Related wage comparison 4 · Related wage comparison 5 · Related wage comparison 6 · Related wage comparison 7 · Related wage comparison 8 · Related wage comparison 9 · Data methodology

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