Manufacturing
HeadhuntersPlant and engineering search
Start a Search

Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Charleston-North Charleston, SC

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 354 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$197,220
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$197,220
  3. Senior Director of Operations$197,220
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$174,040
  5. Process Engineering Manager$174,040
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$174,040
  7. VP of Engineering$174,040
  8. Director of R&D$174,040
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$174,040
  10. NPI Manager$174,040
  11. Capital Projects Manager$174,040
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$174,040
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$174,040
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$174,040
  15. Director of Automation$174,040
  16. Automation Manager$174,040
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$174,040
  18. R&D Manager$174,040
  19. R&D Engineer$174,040
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$174,040
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$174,040
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$174,040
  23. QC Microbiology Manager$162,230
  24. CFO (Manufacturing)$147,170
  25. Corporate Controller$147,170

Bars show the top 25 of 354 ranked. The table below lists all 354. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$136,730$197,220$289,9302900.56
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$136,730$197,220$289,9302900.56
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$136,730$197,220$289,9302900.56
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$150,560$174,040$216,4307301.3
23QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$79,310$162,230$211,3602000.46
24CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
25Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
26Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
27VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
28Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
29Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
30FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
31Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
32Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$110,410$147,170$206,7201,4200.67
33VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
34Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
35Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
36National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
37Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
38National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
39Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
40Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
41Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
42Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
43Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
44Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
45Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
46Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$97,330$139,830$179,7001,6601.03
47Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$121,610$138,340$166,8902201.03
48Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$121,610$138,340$166,8902201.03
49Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$121,610$138,340$166,8902201.03
50Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$121,610$138,340$166,8902201.03
51Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$121,610$138,340$166,8902201.03
52Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
53EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
54EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
55Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
56Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
57Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
58S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
59Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
60Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
61Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
62Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
63Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
64EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
65Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,890$136,370$168,0905100.33
66PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,880$132,150$163,7002,0500.48
67MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,880$132,150$163,7002,0500.48
68SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,880$132,150$163,7002,0500.48
69Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,880$132,150$163,7002,0500.48
70Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,880$132,150$163,7002,0500.48
71Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$109,290$131,080$131,0802003.49
72Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$109,290$131,080$131,0802003.49
73Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$109,290$131,080$131,0802003.49
74Injection Molding Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$93,340$129,070$145,460500.87
75Extrusion Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$93,340$129,070$145,460500.87
76MS&T EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$93,340$129,070$145,460500.87
77Process Development EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$93,340$129,070$145,460500.87
78Tech Transfer EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$93,340$129,070$145,460500.87
79Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$96,880$127,080$163,5404200.76
80Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$101,520$124,870$176,590800.64
81Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$101,520$124,870$176,590800.64
82Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$101,520$124,870$176,590800.64
83Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
84Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
85Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
86Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
87Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
88Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$103,000$124,250$151,0904201.07
89Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
90Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
91Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
92Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
93Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
94Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
95Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
96Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
97Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
98VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
99Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
100Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
101QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
102Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
103Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
104FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
105FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
106Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
107QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
108Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
109Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
110Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
111Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
112Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
113Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
114Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
115Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
116QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
117Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
118CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
119Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
120Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
121Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$115,660$124,060$158,7109801.57
122Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
123Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
124Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
125Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
126Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
127Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
128Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
129Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
130Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
131Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
132Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
133Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
134Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
135Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
136Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
137Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
138Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
139Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
140Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
141Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
142Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
143Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
144Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
145Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
146Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
147Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
148EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
149VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
150Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
151Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
152Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
153Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
154Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
155Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
156Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$88,840$110,830$130,9001,0501.14
157Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
158Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
159Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
160Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
161Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
162Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
163Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
164Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
165Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
166Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
167Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
168CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$90,050$110,820$133,5809401.26
169Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
170Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
171Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
172Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
173Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
174Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
175Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
176Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
177Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$82,950$110,030$137,3405901.18
178VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
179VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
180Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
181General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
182Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
183EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
184Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
185Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$78,770$109,260$162,2206,0000.68
186Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$86,210$106,300$139,4903000.77
187Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$86,210$106,300$139,4903000.77
188Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$86,210$106,300$139,4903000.77
189VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
190Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
191Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
192Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
193Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
194Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
195Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
196Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
197Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
198Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
199Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
200Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
201Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
202Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,560$100,610$133,1406101.08
203Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$74,740$96,990$115,7403200.9
204Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$74,740$96,990$115,7403200.9
205Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$74,740$96,990$115,7403200.9
206Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$74,410$94,730$127,5303,5101.3
207Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$74,410$94,730$127,5303,5101.3
208NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$75,490$94,520$102,5001500.96
209Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$71,560$90,070$126,9101000.49
210PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$72,240$88,130$89,8601300.79
211Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$72,240$88,130$89,8601300.79
212Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$72,240$88,130$89,8601300.79
213Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$72,240$88,130$89,8601300.79
214Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,070$86,260$109,3001,1101.05
215Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,070$86,260$109,3001,1101.05
216Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,070$86,260$109,3001,1101.05
217Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$62,620$82,240$104,6301,3001.04
218Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$60,140$80,880$80,8803202.94
219Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
220Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
221Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
222Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
223Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
224CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
225Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
226Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$63,260$79,990$94,0301,5300.89
227Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,380$79,350$104,4602,6000.71
228Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,380$79,350$104,4602,6000.71
229Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,380$79,350$104,4602,6000.71
230Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,380$79,350$104,4602,6000.71
231Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
232Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
233Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
234Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
235Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
236Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
237Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
238Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
239Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,780$77,300$95,1701,7601.13
240CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$64,590$76,710$82,580600.8
241Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$64,840$74,320$77,0001601.1
242Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$64,840$74,320$77,0001601.1
243Chemical OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$60,920$67,540$77,250801.88
244Control Room (DCS) OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$60,920$67,540$77,250801.88
245Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$39,170$66,570$74,570400.56
246Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$52,280$63,440$77,7001,3800.88
247Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$52,280$63,440$77,7001,3800.88
248QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$52,320$63,050$79,8703302.25
249Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$49,940$61,640$72,900600.34
250Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
251Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
252Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
253Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
254Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
255Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
256Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
257Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
258Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
259Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
260Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
261Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
262Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
263Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
264Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
265Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
266End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
267Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,010$60,950$75,2201,3501.21
268CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
2695-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
270Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
271CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
272Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
273Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
274EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
275CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
276Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
277Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
278Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
279Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
280Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,070$59,280$67,2804700.64
281Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$48,970$59,010$66,1601,4800.77
282Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
283Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
284Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
285Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
286Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
287Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,990$58,690$75,6109600.97
288Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$46,990$58,410$65,0401,2701.22
289GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$46,490$57,410$64,3302900.83
290Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$46,490$57,410$64,3302900.83
291Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
292TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
293Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
294Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
295Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
296Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
297Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
298Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
299Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
300Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
301Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
302Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,460$56,060$61,8608300.79
303Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
304Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
305CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
306Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
307Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
308First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
309Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
310Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
311Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
312Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
313Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
314Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,610$50,470$65,8001,0600.7
315Composite TechnicianFiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (51-2051)$46,790$49,270$59,6501804.43
316Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$39,890$47,970$72,5201400.88
317Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$44,350$47,000$60,1002800.44
318Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$44,350$47,000$60,1002800.44
319SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$44,350$47,000$60,1002800.44
320Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$44,350$47,000$60,1002800.44
321Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$40,560$46,890$50,9702,4201.23
322Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$38,950$46,760$61,8001600.41
323Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
324Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
325Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
326Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
327Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
328Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
329Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,670$45,290$53,3102,2001.06
330Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$33,230$42,540$49,2901300.35
331Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
332Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
333Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
334Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
335CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
336Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
337Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
338Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
339Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
340Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
341Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
342Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
343Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
344Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
345Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
346Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
347Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
348Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
349Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$39,530$40,350$48,7202400.37
350Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$36,560$38,560$40,800700.41
351Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$30,940$37,880$48,2104000.91
352Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$30,940$37,880$48,2104000.91
353Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,460$35,240$37,6705,2100.93
354Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,460$35,240$37,6705,2100.93

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Food Scientist, CNC Setup Machinist, Electromechanical / Mechatronics Technician, Millwright, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Calibration Technician, Product Development Scientist, Electronics Test Technician, Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter), Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device), Senior Electronics Test Technician, Lead Mechanical Assembler.

State figures for South Carolina

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Charleston-North Charleston, SC. 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 Charleston-North Charleston, SC labor market using current BLS occupational wage data. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, 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.

These metrics rely on standard occupational codes; hiring managers should calibrate these ranges against specific facility-level technical requirements and individual shift structures. National industry-specific benchmarks provided by the BLS offer macroeconomic context for specific sectors but remain distinct from the local occupational median pay.

The CEO / President role within the Charleston metro area reports a median annual wage of $197,220, which sits below the national median of $213,990. This role is classified under the Chief Executives SOC code, a category covering broad corporate leadership oversight across diverse manufacturing models. The local middle-band width for this position is $153,200, highlighting the varied pay scales found within the local executive market. While national Communications Equipment Manufacturing reports a median of $409,320, this figure reflects a national industry aggregate rather than a local Charleston-specific wage.

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager reports a local median of $174,040, tracking closely with the national median of $171,270. Mapped to Architectural and Engineering Managers, this role requires oversight of complex technical systems within production environments. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity. Assess duties and candidate requirements separately; these rows do not measure a premium for them. National Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing benchmarks indicate a national industry median of $192,800, providing further scale context for this specialized technical role.

The QC Microbiology Manager position exhibits a local median of $162,230, which is substantially higher than the national median of $103,410. This position is aggregated within the Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists SOC, covering highly specialized quality management roles. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity. Assess duties and candidate requirements separately; these rows do not measure a premium for them. National Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing records a national median of $147,130 for the industry as a whole.

The Press Brake Operator role reports a local median of $37,880, down from a prior median of $44,090, representing a change of -$6,210. Classified under Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, this role is essential for metal processing. The local middle-band width is $17,270, with national Motor Vehicle Manufacturing reporting a sector median of $66,280. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, 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 Charleston-North Charleston, SC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. This role is managed under the Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners SOC code. With a narrow middle-band width of $8,210, the role shows stability in local pay practices. The national industry benchmark for Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing is $52,820, which is an industry-wide national figure provided to contrast against the occupation-specific wage.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

The local median of $162,230 is notably higher than the $103,410 national median, reflecting regional demand for specialized scientific management. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity.

What is the primary indicator from the QC Microbiology Manager data?

The local median of $162,230 is notably higher than the $103,410 national median, reflecting regional demand for specialized scientific management. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity. Assess duties and candidate requirements separately; these rows do not measure a premium for them.

What can I conclude from the two release estimates?

For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, 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. Managers should continue to set starting offers based on specific local machine operation skills and internal pay parity.

Are the national industry rows representative of local facility wages?

No, these rows reflect national averages within specific NAICS codes and are not tied to local Charleston manufacturing operations. For manufacturing occupations in Charleston-North Charleston, SC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

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 · Data methodology

Contingency fees · Editorial policy · Recruiting models compared

Start a SearchCall