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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Iowa

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 366 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$211,190
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$211,190
  3. Senior Director of Operations$211,190
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$147,320
  5. Process Engineering Manager$147,320
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$147,320
  7. VP of Engineering$147,320
  8. Director of R&D$147,320
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$147,320
  10. NPI Manager$147,320
  11. Capital Projects Manager$147,320
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$147,320
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$147,320
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$147,320
  15. Director of Automation$147,320
  16. Automation Manager$147,320
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$147,320
  18. R&D Manager$147,320
  19. R&D Engineer$147,320
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$147,320
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$147,320
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$147,320
  23. VP of Sales (Industrial)$134,010
  24. Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales Manager$134,010
  25. Director of Sales$134,010

Bars show the top 25 of 366 ranked. The table below lists all 366. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Iowa, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$136,440$211,190$331,6603,0501.49
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$136,440$211,190$331,6603,0501.49
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$136,440$211,190$331,6603,0501.49
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,540$147,320$170,2801,5200.69
23VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
24Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
25Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
26National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
27Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
28National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
29Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
30Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
31Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
32Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
33Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
34Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
35Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
36Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$99,780$134,010$172,8103,2600.51
37CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
38Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
39Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
40VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
41Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
42Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
43FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
44Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
45Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$102,130$133,320$173,6609,1301.08
46Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
47EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
48EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
49Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
50Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
51Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
52S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
53Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
54Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
55Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
56Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
57Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
58EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
59Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$89,800$128,080$165,8403,6000.58
60Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$104,010$126,370$159,1601,6200.73
61Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,270$121,580$154,4006100.72
62Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,270$121,580$154,4006100.72
63Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,270$121,580$154,4006100.72
64Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,270$121,580$154,4006100.72
65Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$98,270$121,580$154,4006100.72
66Injection Molding Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$92,050$117,590$124,120400.2
67Extrusion Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$92,050$117,590$124,120400.2
68MS&T EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$92,050$117,590$124,120400.2
69Process Development EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$92,050$117,590$124,120400.2
70Tech Transfer EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$92,050$117,590$124,120400.2
71PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$95,600$114,890$137,0909,0400.53
72MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$95,600$114,890$137,0909,0400.53
73SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$95,600$114,890$137,0909,0400.53
74Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$95,600$114,890$137,0909,0400.53
75Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$95,600$114,890$137,0909,0400.53
76Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
77Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
78Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
79Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
80Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
81Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
82Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
83Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
84Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
85VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
86Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
87Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
88QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
89Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
90Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
91FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
92FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
93Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
94QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
95Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
96Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
97Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
98Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
99Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
100Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
101Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
102Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
103QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
104Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
105CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
106Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
107Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
108Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$90,990$106,510$133,1403,6201.47
109Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
110Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
111Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
112Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
113Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
114Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
115Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
116Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
117Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$93,980$105,820$127,5301,2800.64
118Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
119Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
120Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
121Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
122Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
123Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$83,510$103,090$125,4401,1000.71
124Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$76,480$99,010$122,5702,3401.5
125VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
126Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
127Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
128Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
129Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
130Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$76,480$99,010$122,5702,3401.5
131Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$76,480$99,010$122,5702,3401.5
132Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
133Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
134Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
135Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
136Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
137Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
138Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
139Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
140Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$79,630$99,010$128,1801,8500.83
141Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
142Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
143Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
144Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
145Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
146Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
147Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
148Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
149Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
150Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
151Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
152CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$79,770$97,700$108,5803,4701.17
153Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
154Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
155Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
156Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
157Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
158Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
159Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
160Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
161Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
162Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
163Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
164Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
165Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
166Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
167Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
168Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
169Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
170Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
171Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
172Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
173Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
174Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
175Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
176Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
177Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
178Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
179EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
180VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
181Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
182Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
183Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
184Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
185Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
186Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
187Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,680$97,690$111,0603,6000.98
188Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$77,360$96,540$130,1706,7200.63
189Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$77,360$96,540$130,1706,7200.63
190Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$71,170$87,830$103,5401,3100.93
191Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$71,170$87,830$103,5401,3100.93
192Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$71,170$87,830$103,5401,3100.93
193VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
194VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
195Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
196General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
197Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
198EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
199Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
200Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$60,200$87,690$129,99030,7600.88
201Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$68,740$86,100$106,8105700.69
202QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$67,190$83,850$104,0201,0600.61
203Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$117,0803100.61
204Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$117,0803100.61
205Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$83,450$83,450$117,0803100.61
206Food ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$65,170$82,010$103,9403802.87
207Product Development ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$65,170$82,010$103,9403802.87
208Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
209Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
210Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
211Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
212Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
213Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
214Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
215Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
216Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$63,380$78,340$96,0306,4501.04
217Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,090$77,440$98,15013,2100.91
218Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,090$77,440$98,15013,2100.91
219Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,090$77,440$98,15013,2100.91
220Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$62,090$77,440$98,15013,2100.91
221Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,930$75,620$91,7203,6600.88
222Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,930$75,620$91,7203,6600.88
223Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$62,930$75,620$91,7203,6600.88
224Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
225Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
226Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
227Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
228Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
229CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
230Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
231Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$60,460$74,750$83,13010,1301.5
232Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$57,040$73,010$80,6801801.19
233PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,040$72,250$80,2401,1301.73
234Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,040$72,250$80,2401,1301.73
235Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,040$72,250$80,2401,1301.73
236Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$61,040$72,250$80,2401,1301.73
237Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$58,310$70,360$82,4804,5700.93
238Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$55,910$67,600$81,1306501.52
239Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$58,950$65,000$74,3307601.32
240Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$58,950$65,000$74,3307601.32
241Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
242Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
243Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
244Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
245Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
246Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
247Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
248Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
249Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
250Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
251Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
252Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
253Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
254Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
255Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
256Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
257End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
258Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$57,550$64,400$76,0406,0501.37
259Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$62,390$64,270$98,7302000.87
260Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$62,390$64,270$98,7302000.87
261Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$62,390$64,270$98,7302000.87
262NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$50,860$63,120$79,2203800.63
263MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$55,980$62,220$75,2906901.71
264Calibration TechnicianCalibration Technologists and Technicians (17-3028)$59,440$61,490$75,1001100.64
265Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$46,400$60,860$79,97010,3101.36
266Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$48,540$60,680$75,9503,8400.93
267Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,410$60,490$75,3106,4801.04
268Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$50,410$60,490$75,3106,4801.04
269Chemical OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$50,630$60,440$62,5404902.93
270Control Room (DCS) OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$50,630$60,440$62,5404902.93
271Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
272Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
273Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
274Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
275Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
276Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$50,290$60,320$65,7603,5400.91
277QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$50,630$58,090$63,4804400.77
278CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$49,650$57,780$67,5106402.24
279GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$49,170$57,550$67,5902,0101.43
280Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$49,170$57,550$67,5902,0101.43
281CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
2825-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
283Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
284CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
285Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
286Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
287EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
288CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
289Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
290Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
291Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
292Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
293Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$49,190$57,540$61,5302,8801
294Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
295TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
296Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
297Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
298Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
299Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
300Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
301Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
302Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
303Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
304Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
305Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$48,250$55,090$60,2009,2702.22
306CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$47,330$52,300$61,3004,7502.79
307Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$48,970$51,740$58,0801,3104.12
308Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
309Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
310CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
311Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
312Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
313First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
314Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
315Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
316Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
317Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
318Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
319Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$46,460$50,740$61,0807,2301.21
320Composite TechnicianFiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (51-2051)$41,740$50,450$50,450400.27
321Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$40,120$48,240$52,7302,0301.18
322Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$40,120$48,240$52,7302,0301.18
323Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$48,050$48,050$63,2808001.15
324Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
325Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$43,460$47,590$52,9507,7701
326Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
327Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
328Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
329Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
330Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
331Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$40,630$47,590$54,3507,1700.87
332Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$39,520$47,240$55,9904500.74
333Skilled Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
334Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
335Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
336Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
337Senior Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
338Lead Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$43,220$46,040$53,030600.16
339Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$37,230$45,220$55,5503,6702.43
340Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,560$44,880$51,7704,0001.62
341Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,560$44,880$51,7704,0001.62
342SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,560$44,880$51,7704,0001.62
343Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$41,560$44,880$51,7704,0001.62
344Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
345Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
346Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
347Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
348CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
349Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
350Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
351Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
352Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
353Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
354Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
355Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
356Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
357Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
358Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
359Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
360Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
361Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
362Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$36,190$44,450$51,8703,4801.38
363Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$40,320$41,740$42,1605,2108
364Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$34,610$40,790$48,2402,0701.43
365Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$30,280$35,380$41,57023,9601.08
366Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$30,280$35,380$41,57023,9601.08

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Aircraft Structures Assembler, Semiconductor Fab Technician.

What should you know about metros in Iowa?

Ames, IAAll roles in this metro Cedar Rapids, IAAll roles in this metro Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-ILAll roles in this metro Des Moines-West Des Moines, IAAll roles in this metro Dubuque, IAAll roles in this metro Iowa City, IAAll roles in this metro Sioux City, IA-NE-SDAll roles in this metro Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IAAll roles in this metro

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Iowa. 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 review industrial compensation for Iowa. We utilize May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS) datasets for this summary. We compare state-level medians to national industry benchmarks for hiring oversight. For manufacturing occupations in Iowa, 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 CEO / President (Manufacturing) in Iowa shows a median of $211,190, which is close to the national median of $213,990. The median grew $32,660 from May 2024. Executive pay scales vary with firm complexity.

Manufacturing Engineering Managers in Iowa earn a median of $147,320 compared to the national median of $171,270. For manufacturing occupations in Iowa, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. These managers are central to technical systems and design.

VP of Sales (Industrial) in Iowa shows a median of $134,010, lower than the national median of $148,270. For manufacturing occupations in Iowa, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing reports a national industry median of $215,500. Sales leaders oversee market development and industrial account revenue.

Flexographic Press Operators in Iowa earn a median of $40,790, below the national median of $45,780. The median grew by $1,130 from May 2024. Furniture and Related Product Manufacturing reports a national industry median of $66,800. These operators run complex machinery and maintain output precision.

Sanitation Technicians in Iowa show a median of $35,380, lower than the $36,840 national median. For manufacturing occupations in Iowa, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Iron and Steel Mills reports a national industry median of $52,820. These essential roles maintain clean, standard-compliant manufacturing floors.

Neither Iowa’s $211,190 chief-executive median nor its $237,270 mean specifies a manufacturing operating remit. Clarify whether this hire controls capital approval and the commercial plan or reports to someone who does. A president with authority over pricing and the plant budget is a different brief from a site leader carrying an executive title.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

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

Why is industry-specific pay data limited?

The BLS dataset provides national industry cuts for broad classifications, and site-specific local data is not segregated for individual plants.

Can I rely on these figures for relocation packages?

No: These reflect base market wages and do not include the costs or willingness to support relocation.

How are the changes in median calculated?

For manufacturing occupations in Iowa, 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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