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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA

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 346 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$290,870
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$290,870
  3. Senior Director of Operations$290,870
  4. CFO (Manufacturing)$154,140
  5. Corporate Controller$154,140
  6. Plant Controller$154,140
  7. VP of Finance$154,140
  8. Division Controller$154,140
  9. Assistant Plant Controller$154,140
  10. FP&A Manager (Operations)$154,140
  11. Senior Plant Controller$154,140
  12. Senior Cost Accountant$154,140
  13. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$148,330
  14. Process Engineering Manager$148,330
  15. Controls / Automation Manager$148,330
  16. VP of Engineering$148,330
  17. Director of R&D$148,330
  18. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$148,330
  19. NPI Manager$148,330
  20. Capital Projects Manager$148,330
  21. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$148,330
  22. Senior Industrial Engineer$148,330
  23. Senior Packaging Engineer$148,330
  24. Director of Automation$148,330
  25. Automation Manager$148,330

Bars show the top 25 of 346 ranked. The table below lists all 346. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$167,990$290,870$345,9401,2302.31
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$167,990$290,870$345,9401,2302.31
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$167,990$290,870$345,9401,2302.31
4CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
5Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
6Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
7VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
8Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
9Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
10FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
11Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
12Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$114,990$154,140$204,8303,8001.74
13Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
14Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
15Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
16VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
17Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
18Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
19NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
20Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
21Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
22Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
23Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
24Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
25Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
26Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
27R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
28R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
29Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
30Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
31Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,010$148,330$176,0903600.62
32Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
33EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
34EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
35Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
36Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
37Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
38S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
39Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
40Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
41Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
42Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
43Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
44EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
45Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,140$139,110$190,2601,4200.88
46Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$112,060$138,140$175,3805200.91
47VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
48Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
49Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
50National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
51Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
52National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
53Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
54Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
55Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
56Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
57Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
58Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
59Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
60Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$102,110$136,570$173,0001,2000.73
61PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,550$126,460$140,3904,2400.97
62MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,550$126,460$140,3904,2400.97
63SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,550$126,460$140,3904,2400.97
64Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,550$126,460$140,3904,2400.97
65Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$101,550$126,460$140,3904,2400.97
66Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,640$122,910$160,2401400.64
67Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,640$122,910$160,2401400.64
68Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,640$122,910$160,2401400.64
69Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,640$122,910$160,2401400.64
70Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,640$122,910$160,2401400.64
71Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
72Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
73Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
74Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
75Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
76Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
77Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
78Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
79Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
80VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
81Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
82Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
83QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
84Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
85Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
86FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
87FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
88Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
89QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
90Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
91Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
92Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
93Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
94Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
95Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
96Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
97Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
98QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
99Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
100CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
101Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
102Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
103Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,150$107,550$141,6405100.79
104Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
105Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
106Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
107Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
108Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
109Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
110Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
111Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
112Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$90,990$107,040$129,6002800.54
113Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$78,920$103,860$121,5605901.45
114Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$78,920$103,860$121,5605901.45
115Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$78,920$103,860$121,5605901.45
116Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$80,100$101,150$146,8202,6400.95
117Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$80,100$101,150$146,8202,6400.95
118Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
119Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
120Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
121Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
122VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
123Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
124Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
125Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
126Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
127Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
128Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
129Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
130Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
131Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
132Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
133Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
134Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
135Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
136Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,500$100,880$130,2804700.81
137Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,650$100,880$128,9602600.64
138VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
139VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
140Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
141General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
142Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
143EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
144Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
145Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$65,010$98,780$144,9908,3700.92
146Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
147Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
148Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
149Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
150Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
151Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
152Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
153Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
154Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
155Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
156Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
157Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
158Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
159Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
160Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
161Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
162Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
163Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
164Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
165Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
166Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
167Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
168Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
169Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
170Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
171Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
172EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
173VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
174Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
175Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
176Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
177Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
178Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
179Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
180Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$80,100$98,270$110,5105200.55
181QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$67,830$95,200$112,1201400.31
182Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$72,800$92,310$106,2603901.07
183Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$72,800$92,310$106,2603901.07
184Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$72,800$92,310$106,2603901.07
185Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$68,450$87,560$111,2101500.7
186Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
187Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
188Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
189Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
190Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
191Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
192Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
193Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
194Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
195Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
196Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
197CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,130$85,490$105,9303900.5
198Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$70,740$84,590$104,1801,5601.44
199Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$70,740$84,590$104,1801,5601.44
200Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$70,740$84,590$104,1801,5601.44
201Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$89,9601601.2
202Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$89,9601601.2
203Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$89,9601601.2
204Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$64,450$79,290$102,3304,8501.29
205Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$64,450$79,290$102,3304,8501.29
206Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$64,450$79,290$102,3304,8501.29
207Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$64,450$79,290$102,3304,8501.29
208Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
209Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
210Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
211Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
212Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
213Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
214Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
215Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
216Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$64,310$79,230$95,3601,4000.87
217Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$50,840$78,150$86,470601.54
218Food ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$54,150$76,580$104,6001604.64
219Product Development ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$54,150$76,580$104,6001604.64
220Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$61,950$75,760$83,650900.84
221Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$60,560$73,710$89,1501,0100.79
222Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$64,940$73,170$80,170900.63
223Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$64,940$73,170$80,170900.63
224Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
225Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
226Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
227Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
228Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
229CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
230Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
231Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,060$71,150$86,3601,3000.74
232PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$63,060$70,180$76,2801300.79
233Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$63,060$70,180$76,2801300.79
234Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$63,060$70,180$76,2801300.79
235Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$63,060$70,180$76,2801300.79
236CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$59,770$67,650$80,810801.07
237MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$59,140$63,950$75,3101001
238Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
239Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
240Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
241Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
242Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
243Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
244Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
245Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
246Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
247Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
248Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
249Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
250Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
251Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
252Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
253Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
254End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
255Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$58,020$63,590$76,1007500.65
256Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$46,850$62,840$80,4302,8701.46
257Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$49,540$62,640$80,0809000.85
258Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$51,930$61,340$77,5801,6901.04
259Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$51,930$61,340$77,5801,6901.04
260Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
261Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
262Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
263Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
264Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
265Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$49,280$60,320$67,9607200.71
266Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
267TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
268Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
269Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
270Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
271Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
272Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
273Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
274Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
275Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
276Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
277Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$49,520$59,980$61,6501,1701.08
278CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
2795-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
280Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
281CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
282Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
283Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
284EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
285CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
286Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
287Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
288Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
289Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
290Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,350$59,290$63,6702100.28
291GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$50,470$59,230$63,6901200.33
292Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$50,470$59,230$63,6901200.33
293CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$48,190$58,870$62,3504300.97
294QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$51,460$57,000$66,830500.36
295Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$48,080$52,980$58,5702603.11
296NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$45,450$51,200$75,960700.43
297Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
298Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
299CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
300Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
301Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
302First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
303Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
304Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
305Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
306Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
307Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
308Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$41,600$50,850$59,5001,2200.79
309Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$45,650$49,080$53,2901,4000.7
310Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$38,560$48,510$54,6002000.45
311Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$38,560$48,510$54,6002000.45
312Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
313Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
314Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
315Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
316Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
317Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
318Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,500$47,300$53,0901,4000.66
319Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,970$43,660$57,5103500.54
320Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,970$43,660$57,5103500.54
321SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,970$43,660$57,5103500.54
322Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,970$43,660$57,5103500.54
323Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$36,030$43,450$50,0205201.38
324Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$42,490$42,960$43,0701300.77
325Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$34,660$42,290$54,8203600.92
326Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
327Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
328Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
329Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
330CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
331Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
332Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
333Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
334Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
335Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
336Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
337Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
338Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
339Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
340Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
341Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
342Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
343Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
344Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,000$40,660$54,6905600.86
345Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$31,220$35,000$39,2305,7201
346Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$31,220$35,000$39,2305,7201

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Materials Engineer, Metallurgist / Metallurgical Engineer, Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Extrusion Technician, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Calibration Technician, Polymer / Plastics Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer 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 Iowa

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA. 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?

For manufacturing occupations in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. National industry data for communications equipment manufacturing shows a median of $409,320, though this is a national figure only and does not represent local pay.

Manufacturing Headhunters notes that compensation for executives often includes components like stock options that are not captured in the OEWS dataset.

The CFO role reports a median of $154,140, up $10,540 from the previous $143,600. The national median is $166,570. The local middle-band width is $89,840, which is slightly narrower than the national $94,490. For audio and video equipment manufacturing, the national median is $210,870. Because the SOC is broad, these figures encompass diverse financial leadership roles, and recruiters should verify the exact nature of the candidate's responsibilities to ensure alignment with these figures.

For manufacturing occupations in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Local middle-band width is $49,080, while the national figure is $73,140. For aerospace product and parts manufacturing, the national median is $192,800. The broader occupational classification means that the data includes varied engineering management functions not specific to local plant operations.

For manufacturing occupations in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. The national median is $40,110. The local middle-band width is $18,690, larger than the national $12,980. For the Sanitation Technician, the median is $35,000, which is lower than the $36,840 national figure. These roles are measured under broader occupations, meaning seniority and plant-specific duties are not parsed by the current data.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

No, the industry-specific medians provided are strictly national statistics. For manufacturing occupations in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

Why does the CEO/President role show a large difference compared to the national median?

CEO compensation is highly variable and sensitive to company size, which isn't specified in the SOC. The local median of $290,870 reflects regional market conditions for senior leaders, which can diverge significantly from national averages.

Can I use the industry-specific medians as local salary targets for Des Moines?

No, the industry-specific medians provided are strictly national statistics. For manufacturing occupations in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

What is the source of the middle-band width for the Production Technician role?

The local middle-band width of $18,690 is derived from the difference between the local P75 and P25 percentiles. It highlights the spread of pay for these employees within the Des Moines metro area.

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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