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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Salinas, CA

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 321 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$226,270
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$226,270
  3. Senior Director of Operations$226,270
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$187,730
  5. Process Engineering Manager$187,730
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$187,730
  7. VP of Engineering$187,730
  8. Director of R&D$187,730
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$187,730
  10. NPI Manager$187,730
  11. Capital Projects Manager$187,730
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$187,730
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$187,730
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$187,730
  15. Director of Automation$187,730
  16. Automation Manager$187,730
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$187,730
  18. R&D Manager$187,730
  19. R&D Engineer$187,730
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$187,730
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$187,730
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$187,730
  23. Purchasing Manager$158,550
  24. Strategic Sourcing Manager$158,550
  25. Procurement Manager$158,550

Bars show the top 25 of 321 ranked. The table below lists all 321. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Salinas, CA, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$157,250$226,270$305,6402200.91
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$157,250$226,270$305,6402200.91
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$157,250$226,270$305,6402200.91
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$143,670$187,730$227,730700.25
23Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,170$158,550$195,190300.34
24Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,170$158,550$195,190300.34
25Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,170$158,550$195,190300.34
26Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,170$158,550$195,190300.34
27Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$111,170$158,550$195,190300.34
28CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
29Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
30Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
31VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
32Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
33Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
34FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
35Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
36Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$119,990$153,370$191,5004500.44
37Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$113,770$150,390$194,0401500.56
38QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$127,620$138,590$141,9501000.48
39PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,190$135,160$165,0902900.14
40MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,190$135,160$165,0902900.14
41SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,190$135,160$165,0902900.14
42Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,190$135,160$165,0902900.14
43Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,190$135,160$165,0902900.14
44Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
45Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
46Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
47Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
48Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
49Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
50Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
51Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
52Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
53Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
54Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
55CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$98,130$132,560$155,450700.19
56Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
57EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
58EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
59Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
60Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
61Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
62S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
63Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
64Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
65Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
66Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
67Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
68EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
69Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$103,810$131,050$173,2104000.54
70Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
71Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
72Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
73Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
74Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
75Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
76Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
77Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
78Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
79VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
80Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
81Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
82QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
83Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
84Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
85FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
86FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
87Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
88QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
89Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
90Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
91Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
92Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
93Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
94Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
95Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
96Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
97QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
98Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
99CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
100Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
101Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
102Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$102,150$129,360$164,1901600.56
103Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
104Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
105Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
106Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
107Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
108Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
109Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
110Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
111Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$103,760$126,460$160,650500.23
112Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$81,650$111,500$148,9202001.08
113Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$81,650$111,500$148,9202001.08
114Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$81,650$111,500$148,9202001.08
115VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
116Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
117Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
118Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
119Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
120Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
121Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
122Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
123Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
124Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
125Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
126Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
127Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
128Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$84,920$110,050$143,9801900.7
129VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
130VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
131Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
132General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
133Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
134EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
135Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
136Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$75,020$105,680$163,8702,6000.62
137VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
138Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
139Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
140National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
141Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
142National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
143Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
144Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
145Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
146Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
147Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
148Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
149Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
150Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$74,500$103,810$165,4608001.05
151Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$78,020$102,400$129,1604900.38
152Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$78,020$102,400$129,1604900.38
153Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$77,900$99,770$122,0101200.73
154Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$77,900$99,770$122,0101200.73
155Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$77,900$99,770$122,0101200.73
156Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
157Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
158Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
159Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
160Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
161Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$76,160$98,950$136,730900.48
162Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
163Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
164Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
165Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
166Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
167Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
168Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
169Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
170Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
171Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
172Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
173Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
174Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
175Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
176Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
177Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
178Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
179Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
180Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
181Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
182Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
183Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
184Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
185Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
186Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
187Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
188EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
189VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
190Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
191Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
192Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
193Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
194Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
195Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
196Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$87,080$95,100$132,840600.13
197Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$80,580$95,080$138,220300.34
198Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
199Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
200Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
201Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
202Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
203Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
204Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
205Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
206Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$71,950$91,850$108,8705000.68
207Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$68,880$91,210$114,8602500.49
208Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$68,880$91,210$114,8602500.49
209Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$68,880$91,210$114,8602500.49
210Food ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$71,460$90,080$120,730302.2
211Product Development ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$71,460$90,080$120,730302.2
212Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$73,620$83,810$112,9401,0500.6
213Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$73,620$83,810$112,9401,0500.6
214Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$73,620$83,810$112,9401,0500.6
215Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$73,620$83,810$112,9401,0500.6
216Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$65,900$80,500$99,4803500.59
217Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$59,290$78,780$96,8905300.59
218Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$61,340$72,550$103,0803000.6
219Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
220Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
221Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
222Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
223Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
224Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
225Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
226Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
227Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
228Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
229Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
230Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
231Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
232Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
233Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
234Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
235End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
236Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$52,790$71,490$80,4703500.67
237Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
238Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
239Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
240Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
241Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
242CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
243Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
244Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$47,470$69,920$85,8605300.66
245Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
246Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
247Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
248Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
249Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
250Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$48,400$59,810$77,4502800.59
251Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$48,190$59,320$77,400400.51
252Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
253TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
254Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
255Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
256Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
257Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
258Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
259Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
260Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
261Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
262Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
263Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,530$58,240$72,4702000.41
264Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$45,950$58,080$77,1306300.84
265Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$45,950$58,080$77,1306300.84
266CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
2675-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
268Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
269CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
270Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
271Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
272EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
273CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
274Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
275Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
276Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
277Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
278Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$44,560$56,490$73,920900.25
279QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$48,820$54,220$63,630300.44
280Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
281Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
282Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
283Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
284Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
285Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
286Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$38,810$45,920$52,3006300.64
287Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
288Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
289CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
290Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
291Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
292First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
293Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
294Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
295Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
296Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
297Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
298Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$39,070$44,500$49,7804500.63
299Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$37,260$43,570$50,0301,8900.71
300Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$37,260$43,570$50,0301,8900.71
301Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$39,420$43,370$45,8901,2901.39
302Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$37,200$37,250$37,2502603.37
303Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
304Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
305Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
306Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
307CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
308Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
309Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
310Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
311Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
312Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
313Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
314Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
315Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
316Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
317Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
318Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
319Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
320Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43
321Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$37,040$37,040$48,4101300.43

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Materials Engineer, Metallurgist / Metallurgical Engineer, Injection Molding Process Engineer, Extrusion Process Engineer, MS&T Engineer, Sales Engineer, CNC Setup Machinist, CNC Programmer, Tool and Die Maker, Mold Maker, Robotic Welding Technician, Press Brake Operator, Die Setter (Stamping), Electromechanical / Mechatronics Technician, Millwright, PLC / Controls Technician, Robotics Technician, Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technician, Skilled Mechanical Assembler, Electronics Assembler / Solderer, Wire Harness & Cable Assembler, SMT Technician, Control Panel Builder, Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Injection Molding Technician, Extrusion Technician, Flexographic Press Operator, Chemical Operator, GMP Manufacturing Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician, Semiconductor Equipment Technician, Calibration Technician, NDT Technician, Overhead Crane Operator & Rigger, Polymer / Plastics Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Tech Transfer Engineer, Inside Sales Engineer, Proposal / Quotation Engineer, Electronics Test Technician, Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter), Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device), Senior Electronics Test Technician, Lead Mechanical Assembler, Control Room (DCS) Operator, Aseptic Fill Operator.

State figures for California

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

Reading this wage estimate

What does this data mean for your opening?

Manufacturing Headhunters analysis of the Salinas industrial sector indicates a high degree of wage variance, particularly at the executive level. The CEO/President (SOC 11-1011) reports a local median of $226,270, which is higher than the national median of $213,990. The middle-band width for this position is $148,390, underscoring significant pay disparity among regional firm leaders.

The national industry median for Communications Equipment Manufacturing is $409,320, reflecting substantial pay potential in specialized national sectors that the local generalist SOC data may not capture. For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause.

Manufacturing Engineering Managers (SOC 11-9041) hold a local median of $187,730, contrasting with the national median of $171,270. With a local middle-band width of $84,060, these roles show substantial compensation range, likely driven by site-specific engineering demands. Nationally, the Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing industry median sits at $192,800. For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, 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.

Purchasing Managers (SOC 11-3061) report a local median of $158,550, compared to a national median of $148,080. The local middle-band width is $84,020, revealing a broad salary spectrum for professionals responsible for supply chain management in the area. National Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing lists a median of $178,520 for relevant industry benchmarking. For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. The Salinas area location quotient of 0.34 indicates a lower concentration of these roles than in broader industrial hubs. The comparison metros of San Jose ($171,140 median) and Santa Cruz ($133,890 median) show localized volatility compared to the national baseline.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity. Assess duties and candidate requirements separately; these rows do not measure a premium for them.

What is the primary factor in the high salary range for Salinas CEO roles?

For manufacturing occupations in Salinas, CA, percentiles describe the wage distribution of the mapped occupation. They do not assign pay to plant size, seniority, credentials or job complexity. Assess duties and candidate requirements separately; these rows do not measure a premium for them. High-performing firms in specific manufacturing sectors can offer compensation significantly exceeding the $226,270 median.

How does the Purchasing Manager salary in Salinas compare to the national average?

The local median of $158,550 is higher than the national median of $148,080 for this category. This indicates that Salinas-based purchasing roles command a competitive wage within the current labor market.

Why does the Food Process Operator role show a very narrow band width in Salinas?

The band width of 50 indicates that local pay for this role is highly standardized across the sector. Most employers maintain a tight wage range to prevent turnover in routine food production functions.

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