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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Knoxville, TN

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 348 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$198,890
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$198,890
  3. Senior Director of Operations$198,890
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$162,950
  5. Process Engineering Manager$162,950
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$162,950
  7. VP of Engineering$162,950
  8. Director of R&D$162,950
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$162,950
  10. NPI Manager$162,950
  11. Capital Projects Manager$162,950
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$162,950
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$162,950
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$162,950
  15. Director of Automation$162,950
  16. Automation Manager$162,950
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$162,950
  18. R&D Manager$162,950
  19. R&D Engineer$162,950
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$162,950
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$162,950
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$162,950
  23. Purchasing Manager$139,530
  24. Strategic Sourcing Manager$139,530
  25. Procurement Manager$139,530

Bars show the top 25 of 348 ranked. The table below lists all 348. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Knoxville, TN, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$106,670$198,890$299,8405100.92
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$106,670$198,890$299,8405100.92
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$106,670$198,890$299,8405100.92
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$126,630$162,950$218,5106101.02
23Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,680$139,530$161,3102100.92
24Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,680$139,530$161,3102100.92
25Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,680$139,530$161,3102100.92
26Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,680$139,530$161,3102100.92
27Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$109,680$139,530$161,3102100.92
28CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
29Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
30Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
31VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
32Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
33Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
34FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
35Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
36Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$99,830$133,570$175,8702,0900.91
37Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$101,020$132,200$179,5905300.88
38PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$85,080$121,750$144,9902,3900.52
39MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$85,080$121,750$144,9902,3900.52
40SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$85,080$121,750$144,9902,3900.52
41Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$85,080$121,750$144,9902,3900.52
42Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$85,080$121,750$144,9902,3900.52
43Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$98,100$120,740$139,6503600.86
44Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$98,100$120,740$139,6503600.86
45Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$98,100$120,740$139,6503600.86
46Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
47Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
48Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
49Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
50Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
51Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
52Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
53Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
54Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
55VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
56Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
57Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
58QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
59Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
60Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
61FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
62FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
63Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
64QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
65Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
66Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
67Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
68Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
69Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
70Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
71Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
72Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
73QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
74Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
75CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
76Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
77Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
78Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$88,240$120,020$161,6407501.12
79VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
80Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
81Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
82National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
83Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
84National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
85Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
86Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
87Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
88Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
89Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
90Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
91Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
92Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$88,210$119,380$169,4501,4100.81
93Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
94Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
95Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
96Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
97Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
98Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
99Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
100Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
101Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$84,220$108,590$132,9606301.16
102VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
103VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
104Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
105General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
106Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
107EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
108Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
109Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$67,350$104,590$166,8508,6600.91
110Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$81,010$104,170$130,6401100.78
111Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$81,010$104,170$130,6401100.78
112Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$81,010$104,170$130,6401100.78
113QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$79,730$102,720$128,3506401.36
114Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
115EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
116EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
117Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
118Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
119Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
120S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
121Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
122Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
123Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
124Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
125Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
126EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
127Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$64,480$101,930$135,7202,4301.43
128Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$84,520$99,790$99,7901000.44
129Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
130Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
131Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
132Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
133Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
134Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$75,370$99,650$127,7509402.22
135Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
136Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
137Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
138Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
139Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
140Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
141Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
142Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
143Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
144Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
145Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
146CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$78,790$99,070$126,8807600.93
147VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
148Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
149Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
150Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
151Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
152Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
153Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
154Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
155Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
156Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
157Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
158Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
159Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
160Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$65,890$98,240$136,6506201.02
161Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
162Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
163Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
164Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
165Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
166Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
167Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
168Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
169Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
170Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
171Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
172Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
173Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
174Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
175Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
176Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
177Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
178Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
179Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
180Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
181Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
182Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
183Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
184Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
185Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
186Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
187EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
188VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
189Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
190Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
191Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
192Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
193Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
194Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
195Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,660$95,750$109,2309600.96
196Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$72,730$91,690$114,7303,6501.25
197Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$72,730$91,690$114,7303,6501.25
198Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$74,490$83,240$119,370801.3
199Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$74,490$83,240$119,370801.3
200Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$74,490$83,240$119,370801.3
201Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$59,910$78,110$107,6404701.23
202Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$59,910$78,110$107,6404701.23
203Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$59,910$78,110$107,6404701.23
204Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
205Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
206Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
207Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
208Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
209Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
210Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
211Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
212Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,850$75,930$94,4401,9101.13
213Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,710$75,380$95,9303,2400.82
214Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,710$75,380$95,9303,2400.82
215Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,710$75,380$95,9303,2400.82
216Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,710$75,380$95,9303,2400.82
217CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$64,810$70,230$88,890400.56
218Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
219Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
220Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
221Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
222Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
223Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
224Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
225Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
226Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
227Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
228Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
229Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
230Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
231Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
232Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
233Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
234End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
235Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$59,690$69,140$81,7001,5601.3
236Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$51,000$65,120$98,7901,0700.94
237Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$51,000$65,120$98,7901,0700.94
238Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$51,000$65,120$98,7901,0700.94
239Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$48,510$64,400$81,6701,6501.23
240Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
241Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
242Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
243Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
244Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
245CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
246Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
247Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$59,000$64,300$85,7702,5501.39
248Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$50,370$63,180$72,7105003.24
249Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$50,370$63,180$72,7105003.24
250MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$49,380$61,820$67,2302001.83
251Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$49,270$60,160$76,7601,9501.15
252Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$49,270$60,160$76,7601,9501.15
253PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$36,690$59,560$73,4301901.09
254Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$36,690$59,560$73,4301901.09
255Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$36,690$59,560$73,4301901.09
256Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$36,690$59,560$73,4301901.09
257Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$43,160$58,670$78,6101100.97
258Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$47,400$58,640$72,2402,1701.05
259Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$46,190$56,780$64,3301,4701.32
260Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$39,600$51,170$63,7107404.45
261Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
262Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
263Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
264Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
265Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
266Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,120$50,870$63,1101,7101.6
267QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$47,420$50,230$58,5101701.09
268CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
2695-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
270Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
271CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
272Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
273Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
274EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
275CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
276Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
277Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
278Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
279Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
280Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,800$49,900$62,0801,4701.87
281CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$48,060$49,040$60,7602600.57
282Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
283TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
284Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
285Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
286Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
287Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
288Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
289Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
290Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
291Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
292Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
293Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$41,060$48,040$56,2601,7801.56
294Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$43,000$47,920$48,2003504.04
295GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$38,000$46,880$49,6501900.49
296Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$38,000$46,880$49,6501900.49
297Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
298Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
299CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
300Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
301Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
302First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
303Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
304Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
305Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
306Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
307Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
308Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,150$46,130$53,4802,1601.33
309Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$36,510$45,920$47,1303600.92
310Composite TechnicianFiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (51-2051)$41,600$45,690$55,410801.83
311NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$42,960$45,670$63,8401500.9
312Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$37,020$45,420$47,8207201.55
313Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$37,020$45,420$47,8207201.55
314Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
315Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
316Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
317Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
318Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
319Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
320Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,630$45,320$51,2702,3501.05
321Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$37,530$42,410$47,9101,6400.78
322Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
323Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
324Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
325Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
326CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
327Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
328Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
329Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
330Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
331Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
332Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
333Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
334Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
335Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
336Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
337Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
338Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
339Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
340Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$35,540$39,560$49,6402,6403.84
341Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$36,360$39,400$49,1405901.43
342Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$37,240$38,860$45,110700.42
343Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,940$36,510$43,6502000.3
344Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,940$36,510$43,6502000.3
345SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,940$36,510$43,6502000.3
346Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$35,940$36,510$43,6502000.3
347Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,560$31,200$35,9207,1501.18
348Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,560$31,200$35,9207,1501.18

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Food Scientist, Electromechanical / Mechatronics Technician, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Chemical Operator, Bioprocess Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Calibration Technician, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, 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 Tennessee

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Knoxville, TN. 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?

Knoxville manufacturing compensation is reflected through broad occupational benchmarks. CEO-level roles report a median of $198,890, which is below the national broader-occupation median of $213,990. The local middle-band width is $193,170, with P25 and P75 markers at $106,670 and $299,840. For manufacturing occupations in Knoxville, TN, releases are separate survey estimates.

They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Communications equipment manufacturing national industry data reports a $409,320 median, which provides a significantly higher comparison point against the local cross-industry executive average.

Manufacturing Engineering Managers earn a local median of $162,950, lower than the national management SOC median of $171,270. The middle-band width is $91,880, spanning $126,630 to $218,510. For manufacturing occupations in Knoxville, TN, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Aerospace industry national data records a $192,800 median. Since the engineering management category groups all sectors, these figures aggregate diverse technical leadership roles across the metro, failing to isolate aerospace or automotive-specific process complexities.

Purchasing Managers in Knoxville show a local median of $139,530, slightly lower than the national broad-occupation median of $148,080. The local middle-band width is $51,630, reaching from $109,680 to $161,310. The previous median was $128,440, a change of $11,090. The computer equipment manufacturing industry reports a national median of $178,520. These metrics are constrained by the broad SOC category for purchasing management, which includes buyers and planners across all service and manufacturing sectors.

Electronics Assemblers and Sanitation Technicians report medians of $36,510 and $31,200. For manufacturing occupations in Knoxville, TN, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. National medians are $45,850 and $36,840. Automotive industry medians for electronics assembly are $62,920, and iron and steel for sanitation are $52,820. These numbers group workers by general tasks rather than specific plant process, shift, or seniority, meaning local variations in plant-floor requirements are not individually reflected.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

For manufacturing occupations in Knoxville, TN, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. This remains below the national broad-occupation median of $36,840, reflecting general janitorial pay scales.

Does the engineering manager salary reflect aerospace-specific expertise?

No, the $162,950 local median is for the broad engineering management SOC. The $192,800 aerospace benchmark is a separate national industry row.

What is the reason for the sanitation technician median shift?

For manufacturing occupations in Knoxville, TN, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. This remains below the national broad-occupation median of $36,840, reflecting general janitorial pay scales.

How do purchasing manager wages compare between sectors?

The local purchasing median of $139,530 is a broad occupational average. In contrast, the computer manufacturing industry's national median for this role is $178,520.

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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