Manufacturing
HeadhuntersPlant and engineering search
Start a Search

Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Chattanooga, TN-GA

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 344 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$209,990
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$209,990
  3. Senior Director of Operations$209,990
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$163,720
  5. Process Engineering Manager$163,720
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$163,720
  7. VP of Engineering$163,720
  8. Director of R&D$163,720
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$163,720
  10. NPI Manager$163,720
  11. Capital Projects Manager$163,720
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$163,720
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$163,720
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$163,720
  15. Director of Automation$163,720
  16. Automation Manager$163,720
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$163,720
  18. R&D Manager$163,720
  19. R&D Engineer$163,720
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$163,720
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$163,720
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$163,720
  23. CFO (Manufacturing)$151,530
  24. Corporate Controller$151,530
  25. Plant Controller$151,530

Bars show the top 25 of 344 ranked. The table below lists all 344. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Chattanooga, TN-GA, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$114,940$209,990$451,9804401.25
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$114,940$209,990$451,9804401.25
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$114,940$209,990$451,9804401.25
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$128,200$163,720$182,1903700.98
23CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
24Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
25Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
26VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
27Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
28Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
29FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
30Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
31Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$109,550$151,530$187,7101,2800.88
32Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$100,480$129,900$155,1203200.83
33Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
34Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
35Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
36Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
37Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
38Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
39Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
40Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
41Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$95,410$123,840$143,1004401.29
42Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,550$123,750$143,2401000.71
43Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,550$123,750$143,2401000.71
44Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,550$123,750$143,2401000.71
45Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,550$123,750$143,2401000.71
46Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,550$123,750$143,2401000.71
47Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
48Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
49Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
50Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
51Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
52Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
53Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
54Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
55Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
56VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
57Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
58Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
59QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
60Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
61Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
62FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
63FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
64Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
65QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
66Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
67Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
68Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
69Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
70Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
71Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
72Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
73Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
74QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
75Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
76CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
77Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
78Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
79Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$92,050$121,670$153,9506801.6
80VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
81Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
82Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
83National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
84Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
85National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
86Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
87Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
88Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
89Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
90Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
91Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
92Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
93Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$81,870$118,720$165,2209900.89
94PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$81,750$106,750$133,2809900.34
95MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$81,750$106,750$133,2809900.34
96SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$81,750$106,750$133,2809900.34
97Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$81,750$106,750$133,2809900.34
98Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$81,750$106,750$133,2809900.34
99Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
100Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
101Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
102Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
103Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
104Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
105Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
106Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
107Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
108Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
109Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
110CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$87,400$106,660$130,4105101
111Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$85,060$103,570$131,9102100.76
112Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$85,060$103,570$131,9102100.76
113Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$85,060$103,570$131,9102100.76
114Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$80,900$103,360$142,730701.78
115Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$80,900$103,360$142,730701.78
116Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$80,900$103,360$142,730701.78
117VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
118VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
119Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
120General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
121Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
122EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
123Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
124Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,920$102,920$157,7304,6900.77
125Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
126Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
127Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
128Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
129Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
130Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$71,950$101,200$129,9903201.19
131Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
132Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
133Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
134Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
135Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
136Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
137Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
138Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
139Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
140Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
141Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
142Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
143Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
144Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
145Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
146Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
147Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
148Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
149Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
150Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
151Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
152Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
153Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
154Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
155Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
156Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
157EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
158VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
159Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
160Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
161Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
162Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
163Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
164Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
165Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$82,680$99,410$116,8509301.47
166VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
167Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
168Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
169Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
170Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
171Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
172Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
173Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
174Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
175Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
176Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
177Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
178Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
179Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$66,990$95,640$130,7103801.01
180Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$71,860$92,490$129,110500.33
181Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
182EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
183EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
184Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
185Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
186Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
187S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
188Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
189Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
190Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
191Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
192Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
193EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
194Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$71,590$91,300$128,8501,3201.23
195Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$68,330$87,240$121,3301,7500.95
196Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$68,330$87,240$121,3301,7500.95
197Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,220$76,680$97,8901,9400.77
198Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,220$76,680$97,8901,9400.77
199Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,220$76,680$97,8901,9400.77
200Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,220$76,680$97,8901,9400.77
201Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$53,430$74,470$96,0602300.93
202Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$53,430$74,470$96,0602300.93
203Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$53,430$74,470$96,0602300.93
204Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$49,240$72,330$77,3601,7601.35
205Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
206Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
207Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
208Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
209Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
210CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
211Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
212Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,840$70,660$81,8101,7301.49
213Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$49,600$68,000$97,4407501.05
214Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$49,600$68,000$97,4407501.05
215Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$49,600$68,000$97,4407501.05
216Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$49,180$65,690$81,3808801.04
217Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$59,910$64,300$72,040401.48
218PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$47,910$64,010$70,0201401.26
219Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$47,910$64,010$70,0201401.26
220Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$47,910$64,010$70,0201401.26
221Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$47,910$64,010$70,0201401.26
222MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$48,530$62,850$68,2201602.3
223CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$56,850$62,800$73,070500.99
224Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,080$62,270$75,2601,2501.16
225Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,080$62,270$75,2601,2501.16
226NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$42,900$61,760$92,9301401.37
227Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$49,310$61,720$73,5602602.59
228Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$49,310$61,720$73,5602602.59
229Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
230Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
231Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
232Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
233Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
234Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
235Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
236Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
237Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$29,040$61,340$83,5101,6901.58
238Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
239Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
240Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
241Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
242Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
243Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
244Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
245Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
246Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
247Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
248Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
249Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
250Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
251Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
252Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
253Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
254End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
255Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,100$60,180$74,2701,4801.95
256Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
257Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
258Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
259Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
260Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
261Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,030$52,740$64,5901,0901.62
262QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$42,660$51,630$64,0601000.96
263CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
2645-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
265Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
266CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
267Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
268Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
269EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
270CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
271Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
272Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
273Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
274Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
275Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,790$51,540$61,5407301.48
276Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$46,590$50,950$63,8008501.21
277Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
278TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
279Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
280Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
281Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
282Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
283Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
284Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
285Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
286Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
287Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
288Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$42,500$49,220$61,1301,8502.57
289Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$41,350$48,160$59,9603303.18
290CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$43,090$47,940$57,9101700.6
291Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$39,760$47,320$59,3001200.47
292Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$39,330$47,320$47,3203403.03
293Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
294Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
295CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
296Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
297Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
298First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
299Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
300Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
301Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
302Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
303Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
304Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,240$46,820$55,4101,2701.23
305GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$36,030$45,300$59,5301900.77
306Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$36,030$45,300$59,5301900.77
307Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$42,600$45,280$67,850600.77
308Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$40,360$44,980$50,1101502.75
309Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
310Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
311Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
312Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
313CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
314Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
315Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
316Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
317Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
318Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
319Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
320Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
321Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
322Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
323Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
324Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
325Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
326Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
327Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,760$43,160$49,9601,5803.64
328Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
329Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
330Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
331Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
332Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
333Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
334Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,050$41,330$47,9401,2900.91
335Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,610$41,320$46,4504101.37
336Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$36,610$41,320$46,4504101.37
337Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$38,150$40,260$42,5301,6701.25
338Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$34,980$37,020$47,9103801.51
339Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,690$35,690$47,3201200.28
340Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,690$35,690$47,3201200.28
341SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,690$35,690$47,3201200.28
342Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,690$35,690$47,3201200.28
343Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,080$31,760$35,4704,1401.08
344Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,080$31,760$35,4704,1401.08

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Food Scientist, Sales Engineer, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Calibration Technician, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Product Development Scientist, QC Microbiology Manager, Inside Sales Engineer, Proposal / Quotation Engineer, Electronics Test Technician, Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter), Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device), Senior Electronics Test Technician, Lead Mechanical Assembler, Control Room (DCS) Operator.

State figures for Tennessee

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Chattanooga, TN-GA. 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 presents the following wage analysis for the Chattanooga, TN-GA labor market. This assessment focuses on occupational data compiled by the BLS and covers critical manufacturing roles. For manufacturing occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, 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. Hiring managers should contrast these local medians with their own internal pay structures to ensure alignment, while recognizing that national industry-specific rows are independent indicators not representing local hourly or annual plant wages.

The CEO / President (Manufacturing) role reports a local median of $209,990, closely aligned with the national median of $213,990. Managed under the Chief Executives SOC, this position encompasses the full range of executive decision-making. The local middle-band width is $337,040, demonstrating a wide divergence based on company scale and corporate complexity within the region. The national industry median for Communications Equipment Manufacturing is $409,320, providing a high-level national point of reference for executive salaries in tech-centric manufacturing.

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager role reports a median of $163,720, lower than the national median of $171,270. As an Architectural and Engineering Manager, this role provides technical guidance across regional operations. The local middle-band width of $53,990 signifies a degree of salary compression relative to other technical leadership roles. National Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing benchmarks offer a median of $192,800 for the broader sector, showing the disparity between localized occupational pay and specialized industry averages.

The CFO (Manufacturing) role reports a median of $151,530, which sits below the national median of $166,570. This function is captured under the Financial Managers SOC category. The local middle-band width of $78,160 highlights the varied compensation packages for financial leads in the Chattanooga metro area. The national industry median for Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing stands at $210,870, indicating that specialized industry national benchmarks often exceed the local financial management occupational median.

The Electronics Assembler / Solderer role reports a median of $35,690, a change of -$4,480 from the previous year. This position is classified under Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers. The local middle-band width of $11,630 reflects a stable range for these assembly roles despite the slight change in median reporting. The national benchmark for Motor Vehicle Manufacturing is $62,920, emphasizing that local assembly wages in Chattanooga currently reflect the specific local labor market rather than broader heavy industrial manufacturing medians.

For manufacturing occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. This role falls under the Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners SOC. The local middle-band width is $6,390, a tight band that indicates a standardized local approach to compensation for sanitation duties. The national industry median for Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing is $52,820, a significant benchmark contrast for the broader manufacturing sector.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

For manufacturing occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, 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 does the high middle-band width for the CEO role imply?

For manufacturing occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, 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. This indicates that executive compensation is heavily tied to specific organizational size rather than a standardized metro-wide pay rate.

Why is the Electronics Assembler median lower than the national occupational average?

The median of $35,690 reflects the current occupational snapshot specific to the Chattanooga metro area. For manufacturing occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

How should hiring managers utilize the national industry-specific data?

These rows, such as for Iron and Steel Mills, serve as independent national benchmarks for the broader sector. They offer context on what is paid nationally in specific industries but cannot be used to determine local Chattanooga facility wage floors.

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

Contingency fees · Editorial policy · Recruiting models compared

Start a SearchCall