Manufacturing
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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Bowling Green, KY

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 302 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$164,080
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$164,080
  3. Senior Director of Operations$164,080
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$132,540
  5. Process Engineering Manager$132,540
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$132,540
  7. VP of Engineering$132,540
  8. Director of R&D$132,540
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$132,540
  10. NPI Manager$132,540
  11. Capital Projects Manager$132,540
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$132,540
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$132,540
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$132,540
  15. Director of Automation$132,540
  16. Automation Manager$132,540
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$132,540
  18. R&D Manager$132,540
  19. R&D Engineer$132,540
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$132,540
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$132,540
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$132,540
  23. VP of Sales (Industrial)$126,460
  24. Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales Manager$126,460
  25. Director of Sales$126,460

Bars show the top 25 of 302 ranked. The table below lists all 302. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Bowling Green, KY, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$108,660$164,080$262,420800.76
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$108,660$164,080$262,420800.76
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$108,660$164,080$262,420800.76
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$117,550$132,540$152,210500.42
23VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
24Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
25Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
26National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
27Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
28National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
29Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
30Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
31Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
32Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
33Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
34Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
35Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
36Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$95,140$126,460$172,2702700.79
37Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
38Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
39Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
40Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
41Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
42Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
43Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
44Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
45Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
46VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
47Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
48Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
49QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
50Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
51Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
52FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
53FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
54Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
55QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
56Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
57Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
58Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
59Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
60Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
61Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
62Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
63Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
64QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
65Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
66CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
67Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
68Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
69Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,400$125,170$154,0103902.97
70CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
71Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
72Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
73VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
74Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
75Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
76FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
77Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
78Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,050$119,110$165,7502700.61
79Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$93,150$118,420$141,630800.69
80Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,540$118,400$134,760701.48
81Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,540$118,400$134,760701.48
82Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,540$118,400$134,760701.48
83Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,540$118,400$134,760701.48
84Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,540$118,400$134,760701.48
85Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$88,610$112,770$132,790500.58
86Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$88,610$112,770$132,790500.58
87Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$88,610$112,770$132,790500.58
88Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
89Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
90Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
91Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
92Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
93Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
94Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
95Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
96Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
97Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
98Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
99Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
100Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
101Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
102Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
103Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
104Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
105Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
106Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
107Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
108Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
109Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
110Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
111Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
112Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
113Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
114EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
115VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
116Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
117Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
118Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
119Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
120Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
121Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
122Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,930$101,280$105,2703401.75
123Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
124Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
125Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
126Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
127Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
128Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
129Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
130Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
131Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$91,860$100,860$110,270400.34
132PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$83,810$100,650$146,9802000.23
133MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$83,810$100,650$146,9802000.23
134SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$83,810$100,650$146,9802000.23
135Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$83,810$100,650$146,9802000.23
136Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$83,810$100,650$146,9802000.23
137Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
138Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
139Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
140Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
141Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
142Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
143Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
144Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
145Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
146Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
147Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
148CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,210$99,090$121,3101300.8
149Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
150EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
151EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
152Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
153Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
154Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
155S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
156Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
157Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
158Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
159Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
160Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
161EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
162Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$58,150$97,720$142,390500.14
163VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
164Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
165Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
166Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
167Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
168Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
169Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
170Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
171Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
172Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
173Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
174Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
175Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
176Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$71,840$97,160$137,290800.7
177Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$62,760$84,730$106,910801.13
178Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$62,760$84,730$106,910801.13
179Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$62,760$84,730$106,910801.13
180Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$63,010$81,300$103,2403500.62
181Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$63,010$81,300$103,2403500.62
182Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$67,120$80,780$106,880400.92
183MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$59,400$77,480$92,290502.31
184Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
185Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
186Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
187Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
188Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
189Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
190Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
191Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
192Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
193Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
194Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
195Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
196Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
197Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
198Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
199Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
200End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
201Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$60,890$74,410$78,9507003
202Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
203Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
204Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
205Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
206Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
207Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
208Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
209Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
210Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,530$73,890$92,8103701.13
211Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
212Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
213Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
214Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
215Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
216CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
217Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
218Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$57,930$73,540$84,9706901.94
219Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$59,680$71,540$89,8103900.51
220Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$59,680$71,540$89,8103900.51
221Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$59,680$71,540$89,8103900.51
222Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$59,680$71,540$89,8103900.51
223VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
224VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
225Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
226General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
227Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
228EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
229Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
230Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$49,590$71,170$105,9602,0101.08
231Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$56,630$69,790$83,2201805.83
232Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$56,630$69,790$83,2201805.83
233QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$55,190$64,620$67,160401.35
234Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$44,960$61,120$78,7202701.05
235GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$46,260$60,830$81,7901902.51
236Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$46,260$60,830$81,7901902.51
237Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$46,410$59,100$78,0001100.5
238Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$46,410$59,100$78,0001100.5
239Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$46,410$59,100$78,0001100.5
240CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$57,960$58,800$86,330302.09
241Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$46,900$57,600$71,3003401.03
242Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$46,900$57,600$71,3003401.03
243CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$49,080$56,390$59,8301601.84
244Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$46,440$55,740$68,6404801.2
245Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$47,310$55,230$61,5002301.07
246Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
247TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
248Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
249Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
250Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
251Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
252Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
253Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
254Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
255Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
256Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
257Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$47,910$53,630$53,6304001.83
258CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
2595-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
260Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
261CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
262Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
263Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
264EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
265CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
266Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
267Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
268Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
269Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
270Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$50,810$51,730$60,0002601.74
271Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
272Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
273Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
274Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
275Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
276Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,990$48,860$64,6103201.57
277Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$40,910$45,490$57,2802403.07
278Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$38,770$45,100$48,310901.13
279Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,490$44,790$67,5804304.74
280Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,490$44,790$67,5804304.74
281Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
282Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
283CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
284Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
285Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
286First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
287Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
288Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
289Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
290Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
291Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
292Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$36,640$43,720$50,7706602.09
293Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$35,420$39,110$49,0806201.51
294Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
295Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
296Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
297Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
298Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
299Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
300Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$32,920$36,390$45,0008501.96
301Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,030$34,190$38,3706900.59
302Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,030$34,190$38,3706900.59

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Materials Engineer, Metallurgist / Metallurgical Engineer, Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Automation Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Machine Vision Engineer, Product Development Engineer, Food Scientist, Sales Engineer, Applications Engineer, Robotic Welding Technician, Electromechanical / Mechatronics Technician, PLC / Controls Technician, Robotics Technician, Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technician, Production Technician, Setup Technician, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Electronics Assembler / Solderer, Wire Harness & Cable Assembler, SMT Technician, Control Panel Builder, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Process Technician, Extrusion Technician, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Food Process Operator, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Semiconductor Equipment Technician, Battery Cell Production Technician, Calibration Technician, NDT Technician, CIP Technician, Overhead Crane Operator & Rigger, Polymer / Plastics Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Product Development Scientist, QC Microbiology Manager, Inside Sales Engineer, Applications Engineering Manager, Proposal / Quotation Engineer, Skilled Machine Operator, Utility / Relief Operator, Production Trainer (OJT Trainer), Senior Production Technician, Lead Production Technician, Electronics Test Technician, Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter), Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device), Senior Electronics Test Technician, Lead Mechanical Assembler, Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter), Control Room (DCS) Operator, Batch Maker / Compounder, Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender), Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator, Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating), Retort / Thermal Process Operator, Brewer / Cellar Operator, Senior Process Technician, Lead Process Technician.

State figures for Kentucky

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Bowling Green, KY. 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?

Manufacturing Headhunters reviews annual wage data for Bowling Green, KY. We analyze local employment concentration through the location quotient metric, noting that lower quotients suggest industry diversity or specialized regional focus. The CEO position in Bowling Green shows a median of $164,080. The middle-band width for this role stands at $153,760 locally compared to a national $226,660.

For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, OEWS measures straight-time gross wages, not pure base salary or total compensation. Commissions and production bonuses are included; overtime, shift differentials, nonproduction bonuses and benefits are excluded.

Engineering leadership displays specific constraints. The Manufacturing Engineering Manager role shows a median of $132,540 in Bowling Green, lagging behind the national median of $171,270. Local employment here is 50, with a location quotient of 0.42. The middle-band width is $34,660, significantly narrower than the national $73,140. This reflects potential variance in employer organizational structure rather than purely regional cost-of-living differences. For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

Sales leadership roles in the region show unique activity. The VP of Sales (Industrial) median is $126,460, with a middle-band width of $77,130. Nationally, the median is $148,270. Local employment is 270. For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Because these roles bridge diverse sectors, the broad SOC classification includes varied complexity, requiring deep examination of specific plant requirements versus generalized administrative functions.

Operational support roles require careful mapping. The Shipping & Receiving Lead role indicates a median of $36,390 in the metro. The national median is $45,260. Local employment is 850 with a high location quotient of 1.96. The middle-band width locally is $12,080. Finally, the Sanitation Technician role reports a median of $34,190. The local middle-band width is $9,340. These figures exclude variable shift differentials and plant-specific premiums common in industrial environments.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

The data reflects base annual earnings reported to the BLS. For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, OEWS measures straight-time gross wages, not pure base salary or total compensation. Commissions and production bonuses are included; overtime, shift differentials, nonproduction bonuses and benefits are excluded.

How does the location quotient affect my hiring plan?

A higher location quotient, like the 1.96 for Shipping & Receiving Leads, indicates a higher concentration of workers in that field locally. This usually implies a broader local talent pool available for your specific operational requirements.

Why is the local CEO median different from the national figure?

National CEO wages are impacted by larger corporate headquarters and diverse manufacturing sectors not present locally. The local median of $164,080 reflects the specific industrial profile of Bowling Green rather than national executive compensation levels.

What is included in the reported wage bands?

The data reflects base annual earnings reported to the BLS. For manufacturing occupations in Bowling Green, KY, OEWS measures straight-time gross wages, not pure base salary or total compensation. Commissions and production bonuses are included; overtime, shift differentials, nonproduction bonuses and benefits are excluded.

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