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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Columbia, 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 345 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$176,890
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$176,890
  3. Senior Director of Operations$176,890
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$162,260
  5. Process Engineering Manager$162,260
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$162,260
  7. VP of Engineering$162,260
  8. Director of R&D$162,260
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$162,260
  10. NPI Manager$162,260
  11. Capital Projects Manager$162,260
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$162,260
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$162,260
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$162,260
  15. Director of Automation$162,260
  16. Automation Manager$162,260
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$162,260
  18. R&D Manager$162,260
  19. R&D Engineer$162,260
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$162,260
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$162,260
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$162,260
  23. Regulatory Affairs Manager$129,960
  24. EHS Manager$129,960
  25. EHS Director$129,960

Bars show the top 25 of 345 ranked. The table below lists all 345. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Columbia, SC, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$132,120$176,890$254,9903200.61
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$132,120$176,890$254,9903200.61
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$132,120$176,890$254,9903200.61
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$134,360$162,260$190,0603600.64
23Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
24EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
25EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
26Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
27Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
28Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
29S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
30Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
31Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
32Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
33Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
34Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
35EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
36Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,610$129,960$164,5204100.26
37VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
38Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
39Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
40National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
41Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
42National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
43Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
44Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
45Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
46Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
47Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
48Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
49Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
50Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$80,980$128,650$167,5601,3600.84
51Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
52Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
53Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
54Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
55Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
56Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
57Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
58Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
59Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
60VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
61Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
62Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
63QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
64Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
65Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
66FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
67FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
68Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
69QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
70Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
71Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
72Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
73Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
74Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
75Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
76Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
77Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
78QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
79Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
80CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
81Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
82Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
83Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$99,020$128,050$159,5208501.36
84CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
85Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
86Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
87VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
88Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
89Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
90FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
91Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
92Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$97,450$124,790$172,4901,8000.85
93PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$90,120$123,380$148,2302,0700.48
94MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$90,120$123,380$148,2302,0700.48
95SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$90,120$123,380$148,2302,0700.48
96Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$90,120$123,380$148,2302,0700.48
97Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$90,120$123,380$148,2302,0700.48
98Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$78,990$121,290$176,740400.63
99Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$78,990$121,290$176,740400.63
100Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$78,990$121,290$176,740400.63
101Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
102Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
103Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
104Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
105Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
106Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$88,610$114,560$136,9901300.33
107Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$97,460$112,530$137,5001300.59
108Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$97,460$112,530$137,5001300.59
109Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$97,460$112,530$137,5001300.59
110Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$97,460$112,530$137,5001300.59
111Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$97,460$112,530$137,5001300.59
112Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$81,320$109,440$144,0804600.83
113Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$95,260$108,830$171,9701000.77
114Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$95,260$108,830$171,9701000.77
115Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$95,260$108,830$171,9701000.77
116VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
117VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
118Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
119General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
120Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
121EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
122Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
123Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$74,440$103,950$157,2904,8900.55
124Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
125Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
126Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
127Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
128Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
129Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
130Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
131Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
132Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
133Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
134Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
135CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,550$102,280$127,2204500.6
136Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
137Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
138Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
139Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
140Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
141Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
142Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
143Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
144Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,520$101,320$133,4905101.01
145VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
146Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
147Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
148Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
149Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
150Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
151Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
152Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
153Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
154Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
155Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
156Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
157Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
158Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$81,750$101,030$133,2005400.96
159Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
160Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
161Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
162Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
163Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
164Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
165Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
166Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
167Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
168Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
169Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
170Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
171Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
172Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
173Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
174Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
175Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
176Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
177Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
178Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
179Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
180Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
181Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
182Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
183Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
184Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
185EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
186VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
187Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
188Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
189Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
190Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
191Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
192Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
193Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,020$98,780$117,9807600.82
194Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$79,000$98,020$128,1902400.6
195Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$79,000$98,020$128,1902400.6
196Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$79,000$98,020$128,1902400.6
197NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$78,030$93,640$96,450400.25
198Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$65,660$85,260$117,8902,4300.9
199Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$65,660$85,260$117,8902,4300.9
200Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$63,370$79,160$96,9304001.13
201Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$63,370$79,160$96,9304001.13
202Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$63,370$79,160$96,9304001.13
203Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
204Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
205Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
206Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
207Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
208CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
209Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
210Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$61,490$76,420$92,1801,8601.09
211Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
212Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
213Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
214Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
215Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
216Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
217Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
218Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
219Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,100$74,040$92,2001,8001.15
220Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$61,710$73,430$84,7501900.9
221Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$53,820$72,990$104,1301,1201.06
222Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$53,820$72,990$104,1301,1201.06
223Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$53,820$72,990$104,1301,1201.06
224Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$56,160$71,820$91,6408800.7
225Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$58,240$70,620$83,8501100.77
226Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$58,240$70,620$83,8501100.77
227Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$58,320$69,210$84,3003,2600.89
228Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$58,320$69,210$84,3003,2600.89
229Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$58,320$69,210$84,3003,2600.89
230Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$58,320$69,210$84,3003,2600.89
231PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,630$68,100$77,9402501.49
232Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,630$68,100$77,9402501.49
233Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,630$68,100$77,9402501.49
234Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,630$68,100$77,9402501.49
235Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$47,620$65,870$77,310500.49
236QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$53,830$64,740$75,9702501.73
237Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
238Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
239Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
240Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
241Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
242Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
243Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
244Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
245Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
246Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
247Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
248Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
249Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
250Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
251Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
252Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
253End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
254Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$51,480$64,680$79,0301,3701.23
255Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$46,430$63,250$63,250701.79
256Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$52,390$62,860$75,1601,4500.92
257Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$52,390$62,860$75,1601,4500.92
258Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$49,060$60,390$77,5301,1700.61
259Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
260Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
261Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
262Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
263Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
264Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$46,680$60,090$74,1709901
265CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
2665-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
267Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
268CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
269Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
270Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
271EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
272CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
273Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
274Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
275Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
276Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
277Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,820$59,570$65,9502400.34
278GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$48,800$57,870$70,8904101.16
279Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$48,800$57,870$70,8904101.16
280Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$47,900$57,610$63,7001,2201.18
281Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$51,850$56,430$70,3503102.01
282Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$42,390$55,670$62,1502300.6
283CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$42,640$51,530$60,8302400.55
284Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
285TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
286Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
287Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
288Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
289Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
290Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
291Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
292Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
293Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
294Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
295Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$44,350$49,730$56,2808300.78
296Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
297Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
298CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
299Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
300Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
301First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
302Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
303Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
304Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
305Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
306Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
307Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,340$48,310$58,4901,6801.11
308Composite TechnicianFiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (51-2051)$37,680$44,950$45,5701704.15
309Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$37,230$44,250$47,8403400.93
310Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$39,290$43,790$47,0606201.43
311Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$39,290$43,790$47,0606201.43
312Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$38,080$43,500$48,2601,9300.98
313Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
314Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
315Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
316Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
317Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
318Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
319Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,800$41,240$48,0002,1701.05
320Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
321Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
322Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
323Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
324CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
325Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
326Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
327Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
328Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
329Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
330Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
331Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
332Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
333Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
334Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
335Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
336Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
337Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
338Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,770$39,600$45,5502400.37
339Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,800$39,560$44,3304600.74
340Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,800$39,560$44,3304600.74
341SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,800$39,560$44,3304600.74
342Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,800$39,560$44,3304600.74
343Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$35,190$35,980$36,9201000.59
344Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$27,740$32,170$38,3105,3200.95
345Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$27,740$32,170$38,3105,3200.95

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Food Scientist, CNC Programmer, Robotic Welding Technician, Millwright, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Calibration Technician, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Product Development Scientist, QC Microbiology Manager, 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 South Carolina

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Columbia, 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 provides the executive compensation summary for Columbia, SC. The Chief Executive median annual salary is $176,890, reflecting a median change of -$8,500 compared to May 2024. The P25 to P75 range is $132,120 to $254,990. This salary data is mapped to SOC 11-1011, which provides a high-level view but does not isolate specific manufacturing executive tasks.

The national median for this occupation is $213,990. Columbia’s local middle-band width is $122,870, substantially lower than the national width of $226,660. With 320 employees in this role and a location quotient of 0.61, the executive market is relatively modest. Note that these figures exclude variable pay components like stock options, which are highly relevant for executive roles.

Prospective hires in the manufacturing sector should compare general executive pay against industry-specific national benchmarks. For Communications Equipment Manufacturing, the national industry median is $409,320. The disparity between the regional median and this industry-specific figure illustrates the limitation of the generalist data provided. Recruiters must be cautious when citing this report to justify salary expectations for specialized manufacturing leadership positions.

To attract elite leadership, managers should focus on the P75 benchmark of $254,990. The reported decline in the median salary suggests that the local market for these roles may be experiencing a contraction or correction. Given the reliance on broad occupation data, firms should supplement this with proprietary compensation surveys to understand how firm-specific complexities drive pay variations beyond the scope of this regional survey.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

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

How did the median salary compare to the previous year?

The median salary showed a decrease of $8,500 relative to the May 2024 reference period. This represents a negative shift in the reported annual salary.

Is local industry-specific data available?

No, local industry-specific pay data is not published. The industry data provided is based on national figures only.

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

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