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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Burlington, NC

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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.

  1. Purchasing Manager$152,870
  2. Strategic Sourcing Manager$152,870
  3. Procurement Manager$152,870
  4. Director of Procurement$152,870
  5. Commodity Manager$152,870
  6. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$150,080
  7. Process Engineering Manager$150,080
  8. Controls / Automation Manager$150,080
  9. VP of Engineering$150,080
  10. Director of R&D$150,080
  11. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$150,080
  12. NPI Manager$150,080
  13. Capital Projects Manager$150,080
  14. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$150,080
  15. Senior Industrial Engineer$150,080
  16. Senior Packaging Engineer$150,080
  17. Director of Automation$150,080
  18. Automation Manager$150,080
  19. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$150,080
  20. R&D Manager$150,080
  21. R&D Engineer$150,080
  22. Engineering Manager (Product)$150,080
  23. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$150,080
  24. Lead Product Development Engineer$150,080
  25. Plant HR Manager$135,220

Bars show the top 25 of 317 ranked. The table below lists all 317. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Burlington, NC, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,990$152,870$172,880300.95
2Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,990$152,870$172,880300.95
3Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,990$152,870$172,880300.95
4Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,990$152,870$172,880300.95
5Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,990$152,870$172,880300.95
6Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
7Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
8Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
9VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
10Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
11Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
12NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
13Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
14Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
15Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
16Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
17Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
18Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
19Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
20R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
21R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
22Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
23Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
24Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$125,280$150,080$171,280600.59
25Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$106,270$135,220$194,800600.67
26CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
27Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
28Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
29VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
30Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
31Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
32FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
33Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
34Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,820$134,760$202,1801900.53
35VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
36Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
37Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
38National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
39Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
40National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
41Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
42Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
43Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
44Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
45Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
46Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
47Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
48Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$84,950$129,740$182,4202000.74
49PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$98,690$127,570$156,8802700.36
50MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$98,690$127,570$156,8802700.36
51SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$98,690$127,570$156,8802700.36
52Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$98,690$127,570$156,8802700.36
53Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$98,690$127,570$156,8802700.36
54Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
55Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
56Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
57Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
58Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
59Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
60Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
61Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
62Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,650$119,650$121,960300.39
63Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
64Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
65Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
66Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
67Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
68Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
69Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
70Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
71Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
72VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
73Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
74Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
75QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
76Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
77Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
78FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
79FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
80Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
81QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
82Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
83Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
84Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
85Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
86Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
87Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
88Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
89Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
90QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
91Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
92CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
93Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
94Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
95Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$95,680$112,690$139,0601801.7
96Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
97EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
98EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
99Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
100Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
101Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
102S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
103Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
104Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
105Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
106Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
107Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
108EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
109Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$88,210$112,090$164,5701800.65
110VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
111Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
112Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
113Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
114Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
115Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
116Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
117Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
118Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
119Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
120Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
121Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
122Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
123Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,250$103,690$133,6601101.17
124Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
125Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
126Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
127Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
128Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
129Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
130Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
131Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
132Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
133Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
134Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
135Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
136Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
137Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
138Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
139Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
140Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
141Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
142Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
143Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
144Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
145Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
146Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
147Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
148Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
149Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
150Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
151Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
152Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
153Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
154Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
155Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
156Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
157CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,410$95,870$115,940800.63
158Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
159Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
160Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
161Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
162EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
163VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
164Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
165Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
166Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
167Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
168Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
169Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
170Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$75,040$95,870$103,5401901.17
171VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
172VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
173Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
174General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
175Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
176EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
177Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
178Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$62,380$94,250$140,6209000.59
179Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$72,800$93,290$127,620500.73
180Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$72,800$93,290$127,620500.73
181Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$72,800$93,290$127,620500.73
182Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$67,880$83,370$123,0202500.54
183Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$67,880$83,370$123,0202500.54
184Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,460$80,320$100,5304300.68
185Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,460$80,320$100,5304300.68
186Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,460$80,320$100,5304300.68
187Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,460$80,320$100,5304300.68
188Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$65,720$79,430$101,410600.99
189Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$65,720$79,430$101,410600.99
190Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$65,720$79,430$101,410600.99
191Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$63,350$78,140$78,140401.8
192Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$63,350$78,140$78,140401.8
193Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$50,290$76,650$93,900900.52
194Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$50,290$76,650$93,900900.52
195Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$50,290$76,650$93,900900.52
196QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$55,250$73,650$127,6101201.62
197Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
198Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
199Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
200Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
201Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
202Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
203Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
204Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
205Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$58,420$71,850$91,2402600.97
206Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$58,900$69,240$85,0401600.75
207Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
208Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
209Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
210Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
211Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
212CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
213Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
214Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$51,030$63,690$82,4204501.52
215Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$57,590$58,310$71,470405.94
216NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$46,810$56,580$68,340Not published by BLSNot published by BLS
217CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
2185-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
219Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
220CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
221Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
222Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
223EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
224CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
225Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
226Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
227Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
228Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
229Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$47,470$56,460$61,2001100.89
230Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,370$54,220$64,5605001.84
231Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,370$54,220$64,5605001.84
232Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$43,610$53,980$73,050501.72
233Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$47,350$52,450$61,0602801.57
234Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$45,390$51,400$60,0202300.69
235Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
236TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
237Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
238Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
239Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
240Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
241Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
242Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
243Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
244Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
245Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
246Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,970$50,740$58,0001200.65
247Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$39,090$48,650$57,670901.43
248Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
249Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
250Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
251Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
252Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
253Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
254Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
255Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
256Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
257Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
258Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
259Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
260Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
261Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
262Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
263Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
264End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
265Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$41,290$48,490$65,8702801.49
266CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$36,780$46,940$59,490Not published by BLSNot published by BLS
267Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
268Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
269Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
270Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
271Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
272Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$39,110$46,440$57,1901100.66
273Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$40,500$44,910$58,4505901.75
274Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
275Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
276Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
277Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
278Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
279Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
280Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$35,710$42,780$47,1303100.87
281Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,670$42,480$47,360700.9
282Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,670$42,480$47,360700.9
283Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$39,800$39,800$45,890501.87
284Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
285Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
286CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
287Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
288Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
289First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
290Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
291Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
292Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
293Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
294Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
295Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$33,510$36,980$47,0303801.46
296Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$34,360$36,040$42,6901301.91
297Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,730$35,250$38,9609200.96
298Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,730$35,250$38,9609200.96
299Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
300Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
301Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
302Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
303CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
304Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
305Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
306Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
307Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
308Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
309Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
310Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
311Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
312Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
313Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
314Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
315Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
316Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18
317Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$29,260$35,140$37,7303503.18

What should you know about not published by BLS?

CEO / President (Manufacturing), Chief Operating Officer (COO), 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, Formulation Chemist, Sales Engineer, Applications Engineer, CNC Programmer, Robotic Welding Technician, Millwright, PLC / Controls Technician, Robotics Technician, Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technician, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Electronics Assembler / Solderer, Wire Harness & Cable Assembler, SMT Technician, Control Panel Builder, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Extrusion Technician, Chemical Operator, GMP Manufacturing Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Semiconductor Equipment Technician, Calibration Technician, QC Lab Technician, Overhead Crane Operator & Rigger, Senior Director of Operations, Polymer / Plastics Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Product Development Scientist, Inside Sales Engineer, Applications Engineering Manager, 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, Aseptic Fill Operator.

State figures for North Carolina

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Burlington, NC. 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 the wage data for Burlington, NC. The Purchasing Manager role shows a median of $152,870, exceeding the national median of $148,080. The middle-band width is $62,890, while the national is $66,720. This alignment suggests that local demand for purchasing talent is consistent with national sector requirements.

BLS data excludes non-cash benefits which are often vital in total compensation strategies.

Manufacturing Engineering Managers in Burlington show a median of $150,080, beneath the $171,270 national median. Employment is 60 with a location quotient of 0.59. The local middle-band width is $46,000, significantly narrower than the national $73,140. For manufacturing occupations in Burlington, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

The middle-band width is $88,530, almost exactly matching the national $88,180. For manufacturing occupations in Burlington, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. This indicates an upward revaluation of human resources management compensation in the region during the latest reporting period.

For manufacturing occupations in Burlington, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. The Sanitation Technician median is $35,250, nearly the national $36,840. Local employment is 920. The middle-band width is $9,230. The Production Technician role reflects a median of $35,140, whereas the national median is $40,110. Local employment is 350. The middle-band width is $8,470. These support roles exhibit a tight pay range, suggesting highly standardized compensation practices among local industrial employers.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

The local median of $135,220 is lower than the $149,280 national level. For manufacturing occupations in Burlington, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

How do local HR manager wages compare to the national average?

The local median of $135,220 is lower than the $149,280 national level. For manufacturing occupations in Burlington, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

What does the middle-band width tell me about pay equity?

The middle-band width of $9,230 for sanitation technicians shows a very consistent pay range across local employers. This stability can simplify your own compensation modeling.

Is the production technician wage representative?

Yes, with 350 employees captured, it represents a solid local sample. The $35,140 median indicates current market rates for support labor in this specific region.

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