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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC

Manufacturing Headhunters uses the published BLS OEWS figures below. They describe the mapped occupation and area, not an individual offer.

This is what we do all day: recruit manufacturing professionals.

BLS published a median for 352 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$381,330
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$381,330
  3. Senior Director of Operations$381,330
  4. VP of Sales (Industrial)$190,370
  5. Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales Manager$190,370
  6. Director of Sales$190,370
  7. National Sales Manager$190,370
  8. Key Account Manager$190,370
  9. National Account Manager$190,370
  10. Business Development Manager$190,370
  11. Territory Sales Manager$190,370
  12. Channel / Distributor Sales Manager$190,370
  13. Product Manager (Industrial)$190,370
  14. Field Service Manager$190,370
  15. Senior Applications Engineer$190,370
  16. Lead Field Service Engineer$190,370
  17. Traveling Field Service Engineer$190,370
  18. Sales Engineer$175,310
  19. Inside Sales Engineer$175,310
  20. Proposal / Quotation Engineer$175,310
  21. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$172,480
  22. Process Engineering Manager$172,480
  23. Controls / Automation Manager$172,480
  24. VP of Engineering$172,480
  25. Director of R&D$172,480

Bars show the top 25 of 352 ranked. The table below lists all 352. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$248,580$381,330$499,9901400.32
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$248,580$381,330$499,9901400.32
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$248,580$381,330$499,9901400.32
4VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
5Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
6Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
7National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
8Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
9National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
10Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
11Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
12Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
13Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
14Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
15Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
16Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
17Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$122,560$190,370$268,5701,1500.81
18Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$133,640$175,310$215,7303302.88
19Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$133,640$175,310$215,7303302.88
20Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$133,640$175,310$215,7303302.88
21Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
22Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
23Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
24VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
25Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
26Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
27NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
28Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
29Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
30Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
31Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
32Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
33Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
34Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
35R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
36R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
37Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
38Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
39Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$144,960$172,480$213,3808601.77
40CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
41Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
42Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
43VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
44Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
45Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
46FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
47Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
48Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$130,700$165,470$219,0501,7100.92
49Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$128,920$160,580$210,1306301.28
50Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$132,840$160,370$190,6702501.37
51Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$132,840$160,370$190,6702501.37
52Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$132,840$160,370$190,6702501.37
53Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$132,840$160,370$190,6702501.37
54Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$132,840$160,370$190,6702501.37
55Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
56EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
57EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
58Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
59Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
60Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
61S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
62Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
63Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
64Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
65Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
66Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
67EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
68Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$108,590$152,090$199,9902,3401.7
69Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
70Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
71Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
72Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
73Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
74Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
75Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
76Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
77Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
78VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
79Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
80Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
81QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
82Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
83Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
84FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
85FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
86Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
87QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
88Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
89Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
90Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
91Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
92Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
93Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
94Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
95Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
96QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
97Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
98CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
99Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
100Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
101Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$105,000$137,950$169,5106201.14
102PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$128,290$135,620$168,7209,7902.62
103MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$128,290$135,620$168,7209,7902.62
104SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$128,290$135,620$168,7209,7902.62
105Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$128,290$135,620$168,7209,7902.62
106Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$128,290$135,620$168,7209,7902.62
107Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
108Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
109Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
110Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
111Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
112Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
113Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
114Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
115Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$83,500$129,030$166,2101,0202.31
116Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
117Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
118Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
119Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
120Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
121Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$100,240$127,710$163,1305801.69
122Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$95,150$118,990$139,1104701.37
123Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$95,150$118,990$139,1104701.37
124Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$95,150$118,990$139,1104701.37
125Injection Molding Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$102,410$117,440$143,0401102.37
126Extrusion Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$102,410$117,440$143,0401102.37
127MS&T EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$102,410$117,440$143,0401102.37
128Process Development EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$102,410$117,440$143,0401102.37
129Tech Transfer EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$102,410$117,440$143,0401102.37
130Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$102,230$117,000$131,120801.5
131Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$102,230$117,000$131,120801.5
132Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$102,230$117,000$131,120801.5
133VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
134Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
135Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
136Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
137Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
138Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
139Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
140Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
141Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
142Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
143Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
144Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
145Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
146Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$86,330$116,310$168,2604200.86
147VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
148VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
149Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
150General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
151Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
152EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
153Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
154Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$72,940$113,930$171,2803,4000.44
155Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$81,280$104,870$136,3703,1801.35
156Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$81,280$104,870$136,3703,1801.35
157Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
158Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
159Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
160Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
161Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
162Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
163Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
164Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
165Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
166Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
167Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
168Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
169Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
170Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
171Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
172Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
173Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
174Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
175Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
176Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
177Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
178Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
179Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
180Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
181Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
182Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
183EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
184VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
185Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
186Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
187Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
188Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
189Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
190Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
191Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$83,260$102,890$130,3301,1501.42
192Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
193Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
194Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
195Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
196Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
197Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
198Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
199Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
200Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
201Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
202Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
203CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$84,750$101,650$129,3106200.95
204Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$80,140$98,490$118,2403101.01
205Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$80,140$98,490$118,2403101.01
206Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$80,140$98,490$118,2403101.01
207QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$64,800$96,430$133,0602,2405.88
208Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$70,700$85,090$115,7403,0600.96
209Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$70,700$85,090$115,7403,0600.96
210Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$70,700$85,090$115,7403,0600.96
211Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$70,700$85,090$115,7403,0600.96
212Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$64,170$83,780$108,6208700.94
213Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$64,170$83,780$108,6208700.94
214Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$64,170$83,780$108,6208700.94
215Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$78,000$81,580$109,4601,1406.24
216Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$76,090$81,190$96,700601.88
217Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$64,820$79,620$103,2301,2201.12
218Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
219Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
220Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
221Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
222Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
223CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
224Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
225Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,940$77,930$96,5909800.66
226Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
227Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
228Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
229Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
230Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
231Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
232Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
233Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
234Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$61,830$76,800$96,1401,0500.77
235PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,720$76,740$81,5401801.23
236Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,720$76,740$81,5401801.23
237Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,720$76,740$81,5401801.23
238Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,720$76,740$81,5401801.23
239Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$62,550$73,710$79,320400.43
240QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$51,340$64,500$79,9603702.91
241Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
242Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
243Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
244Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
245Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
246Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
247Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
248Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
249Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
250Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
251Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
252Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
253Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
254Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
255Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
256Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
257End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
258Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$53,950$63,140$77,2805400.56
259MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$51,220$62,860$73,620300.34
260Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,670$62,000$75,3909500.69
261Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,670$62,000$75,3909500.69
262Calibration TechnicianCalibration Technologists and Technicians (17-3028)$49,720$60,960$84,3701704.67
263NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$54,050$60,340$83,3701100.81
264GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$48,690$60,080$63,7305801.87
265Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$48,690$60,080$63,7305801.87
266Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$49,820$59,220$64,0101,1600.69
267Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$48,390$59,180$63,5207500.83
268Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$48,070$58,400$63,9201,0406.74
269CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$47,120$51,540$66,340300.51
270CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
2715-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
272Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
273CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
274Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
275Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
276EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
277CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
278Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
279Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
280Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
281Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
282Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,760$50,740$62,0402200.35
283Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
284Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
285Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
286Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
287Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
288Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,770$50,170$62,0307900.91
289Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
290Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
291CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
292Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
293Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
294First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
295Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
296Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
297Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
298Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
299Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
300Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$40,230$49,390$70,5408300.63
301Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
302TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
303Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
304Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
305Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
306Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
307Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
308Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
309Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
310Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
311Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
312Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,950$49,280$60,6402900.31
313CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$43,920$48,560$54,080700.17
314Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$41,160$45,930$50,3901200.31
315Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$41,160$45,930$50,3901200.31
316Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
317Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
318Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
319Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
320Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
321Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
322Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,250$44,160$49,2508900.49
323Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$38,840$44,090$48,5907100.41
324Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$34,440$43,950$47,9604600.83
325Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$34,440$43,950$47,9604600.83
326SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$34,440$43,950$47,9604600.83
327Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$34,440$43,950$47,9604600.83
328Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$38,150$43,440$52,0202500.78
329Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
330Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
331Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
332Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
333CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
334Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
335Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
336Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
337Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
338Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
339Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
340Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
341Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
342Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
343Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
344Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
345Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
346Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
347Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,510$42,620$57,3908101.46
348Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$30,300$40,820$57,3101100.34
349Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$38,160$40,560$46,180500.66
350Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$34,670$37,550$39,610500.38
351Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$32,760$36,590$39,5903,1500.64
352Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$32,760$36,590$39,5903,1500.64

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Food Scientist, Tool and Die Maker, Mold Maker, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Extrusion Technician, Chemical Operator, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Product Development Scientist, 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 North Carolina

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Durham-Chapel Hill, NC. Official area tables. Released 2026-05-15. LQ is employment concentration, not a wage index.

Reading this wage estimate

What does this data mean for your opening?

For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, 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 $251,410, which is higher than the national $226,660. National industry-wide communications equipment manufacturing has a median of $409,320.

For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, 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.

The VP of Sales (Industrial) reports a median of $190,370, up from the prior median of $172,010. Local middle-band width is $146,010, which is broader than the national $106,980. For computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing, the national median is $215,500. The broad occupational classification means this data includes a wide range of sales roles that may not be directly applicable to every manufacturing context, requiring specific verification of industry experience.

The Sales Engineer position shows a median of $175,310, a significant jump from $108,490 in the prior period. Local middle-band width is $82,090, while the national figure is $68,340. National median for computer and peripheral equipment is $168,500. This is a very specific role, but its mapping to the broader Sales Engineers SOC still captures diverse technical sales tasks that must be validated against the specific job description.

The Food Process Operator role has a median of $37,550, up $630 from the previous $36,920. Local middle-band width is $4,940, while the national is $7,720. For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, 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 $36,840, and the local middle-band width for this role is $6,830.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

The local middle-band width of $251,410 suggests a broad range of pay for proven executives in the Durham area. For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

What can I conclude from the two release estimates?

The jump to $175,310 reflects updated BLS data for this period. Such fluctuations are possible within the reporting period for highly specialized technical roles.

How should recruiters treat the CEO/President middle-band width?

The local middle-band width of $251,410 suggests a broad range of pay for proven executives in the Durham area. For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

Are the sanitation technician figures representative of general cleaning work?

The data is mapped to the broader janitorial and cleaning occupation. For manufacturing occupations in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

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

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