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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in Kentucky

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 365 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$179,530
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$179,530
  3. Senior Director of Operations$179,530
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$147,680
  5. Process Engineering Manager$147,680
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$147,680
  7. VP of Engineering$147,680
  8. Director of R&D$147,680
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$147,680
  10. NPI Manager$147,680
  11. Capital Projects Manager$147,680
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$147,680
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$147,680
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$147,680
  15. Director of Automation$147,680
  16. Automation Manager$147,680
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$147,680
  18. R&D Manager$147,680
  19. R&D Engineer$147,680
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$147,680
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$147,680
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$147,680
  23. CFO (Manufacturing)$130,650
  24. Corporate Controller$130,650
  25. Plant Controller$130,650

Bars show the top 25 of 365 ranked. The table below lists all 365. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in Kentucky, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$119,990$179,530$298,7502,0700.79
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$119,990$179,530$298,7502,0700.79
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$119,990$179,530$298,7502,0700.79
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$127,880$147,680$170,6501,8000.63
23CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
24Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
25Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
26VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
27Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
28Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
29FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
30Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
31Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$100,190$130,650$169,6806,6300.61
32VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
33Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
34Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
35National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
36Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
37National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
38Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
39Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
40Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
41Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
42Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
43Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
44Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
45Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$94,410$128,650$181,7706,6500.81
46Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$96,470$124,350$144,7209200.85
47Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$96,470$124,350$144,7209200.85
48Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$96,470$124,350$144,7209200.85
49Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$96,470$124,350$144,7209200.85
50Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$96,470$124,350$144,7209200.85
51Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
52EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
53EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
54Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
55Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
56Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
57S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
58Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
59Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
60Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
61Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
62Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
63EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
64Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$90,000$122,930$158,0002,3900.3
65Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$96,070$121,460$155,1701,9600.69
66Injection Molding Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$106,000$117,170$136,4501900.7
67Extrusion Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$106,000$117,170$136,4501900.7
68MS&T EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$106,000$117,170$136,4501900.7
69Process Development EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$106,000$117,170$136,4501900.7
70Tech Transfer EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$106,000$117,170$136,4501900.7
71Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
72Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
73Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
74Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
75Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
76Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
77Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
78Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
79Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
80VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
81Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
82Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
83QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
84Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
85Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
86FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
87FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
88Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
89QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
90Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
91Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
92Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
93Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
94Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
95Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
96Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
97Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
98QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
99Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
100CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
101Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
102Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
103Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$91,490$112,250$145,0706,4302.03
104PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$91,960$109,010$136,0907,6600.35
105MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$91,960$109,010$136,0907,6600.35
106SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$91,960$109,010$136,0907,6600.35
107Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$91,960$109,010$136,0907,6600.35
108Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$91,960$109,010$136,0907,6600.35
109Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
110Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
111Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
112Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
113Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
114Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
115Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
116Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
117Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
118Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
119Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
120CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$80,350$101,050$120,6904,1701.09
121Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$77,370$100,720$133,6501,0700.53
122Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$77,370$100,720$133,6501,0700.53
123Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$77,370$100,720$133,6501,0700.53
124Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$96,300$100,620$119,2802800.94
125Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$96,300$100,620$119,2802800.94
126Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$96,300$100,620$119,2802800.94
127VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
128Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
129Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
130Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
131Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
132Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
133Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
134Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
135Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
136Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
137Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
138Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
139Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
140Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$73,900$100,340$131,5102,3400.82
141Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
142Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
143Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
144Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
145Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
146Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$82,300$99,830$124,7905000.25
147Food ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$70,850$98,710$122,3201701.04
148Product Development ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$70,850$98,710$122,3201701.04
149Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
150Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
151Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
152Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
153Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
154Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
155Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
156Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
157Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$77,290$98,550$117,1501,5400.6
158Chemical OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$80,530$97,550$112,920400.19
159Control Room (DCS) OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$80,530$97,550$112,920400.19
160Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
161Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
162Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
163Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
164Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
165Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
166Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
167Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
168Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
169Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
170Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
171Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
172Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
173Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
174Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
175Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
176Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
177Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
178Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
179Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
180Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
181Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
182Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
183Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
184Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
185Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
186EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
187VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
188Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
189Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
190Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
191Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
192Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
193Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
194Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$79,390$96,820$116,1506,0701.29
195Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$76,500$90,190$111,5803800.57
196Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$76,500$90,190$111,5803800.57
197Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$76,500$90,190$111,5803800.57
198Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$64,800$84,090$98,1905300.5
199Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$68,150$83,730$106,4202,4801.37
200Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$68,150$83,730$106,4202,4801.37
201Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$68,150$83,730$106,4202,4801.37
202Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$64,130$81,700$104,86010,2500.75
203Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$64,130$81,700$104,86010,2500.75
204VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
205VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
206Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
207General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
208Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
209EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
210Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
211Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$53,820$79,370$124,71052,1001.16
212QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$65,020$77,580$95,2406700.3
213Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
214Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
215Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
216Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
217Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
218Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
219Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
220Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
221Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$59,990$76,760$99,22010,0201.26
222Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$61,040$75,270$96,78011,9300.64
223Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$61,040$75,270$96,78011,9300.64
224Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$61,040$75,270$96,78011,9300.64
225Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$61,040$75,270$96,78011,9300.64
226Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
227Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
228Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
229Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
230Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
231CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
232Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
233Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$58,930$72,490$89,10013,8201.6
234MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$58,390$70,610$81,1701,2202.34
235Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$52,630$69,240$83,4604,3600.81
236Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$52,630$69,240$83,4604,3600.81
237Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$52,630$69,240$83,4604,3600.81
238Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$53,830$66,570$81,0001,9002.59
239Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$53,830$66,570$81,0001,9002.59
240NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$42,680$65,660$78,8503800.49
241Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$58,810$65,270$86,960700.36
242Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$51,660$65,240$83,3405,4400.86
243CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$57,400$64,980$75,3402300.64
244Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
245Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
246Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
247Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
248Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
249Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
250Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
251Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
252Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
253Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
254Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
255Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
256Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
257Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
258Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
259Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
260End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
261Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$56,940$64,560$76,73011,5402.04
262PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$56,170$62,980$76,8806300.75
263Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$56,170$62,980$76,8806300.75
264Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$56,170$62,980$76,8806300.75
265Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$56,170$62,980$76,8806300.75
266Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$45,830$62,000$80,0406401.17
267QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$46,690$60,830$72,5607000.94
268Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$47,970$60,090$74,88010,1801.27
269Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$47,970$60,090$74,88010,1801.27
270Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$46,540$59,720$77,92011,0301.13
271CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
2725-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
273Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
274CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
275Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
276Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
277EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
278CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
279Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
280Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
281Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
282Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
283Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$48,560$58,660$71,5306,0401.64
284Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$47,780$58,620$67,5405,1000.97
285GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$45,870$57,530$79,6703,5902
286Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$45,870$57,530$79,6703,5902
287Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
288Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
289Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
290Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
291Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
292Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$45,090$55,690$72,9506,4801.29
293Calibration TechnicianCalibration Technologists and Technicians (17-3028)$50,620$55,650$60,970900.43
294Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
295TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
296Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
297Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
298Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
299Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
300Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
301Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
302Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
303Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
304Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
305Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$46,380$51,470$59,9006,6301.24
306Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$46,380$50,740$59,8201,0002.46
307Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$45,970$50,000$56,1601,4001.79
308CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$42,800$49,180$59,5001,7400.8
309Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$40,360$48,910$61,2302600.29
310Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$41,340$48,000$59,1402,4701.33
311Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,930$47,220$49,8502,0200.64
312Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,930$47,220$49,8502,0200.64
313SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,930$47,220$49,8502,0200.64
314Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$39,930$47,220$49,8502,0200.64
315Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$38,970$47,110$57,6404,3402.24
316Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$38,820$46,630$59,47011,2701.13
317Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
318Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
319CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
320Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
321Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
322First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
323Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
324Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
325Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
326Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
327Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
328Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$38,020$46,280$57,43012,8801.68
329Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$39,300$45,760$60,2307,2903.31
330Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$39,300$45,760$60,2307,2903.31
331Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
332Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
333Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
334Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
335Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
336Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
337Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,530$42,830$48,84016,1301.53
338Skilled Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
339Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
340Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
341Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
342Senior Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
343Lead Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,410$41,580$46,3101,1802.7
344Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
345Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
346Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
347Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
348CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
349Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
350Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
351Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
352Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
353Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
354Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
355Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
356Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
357Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
358Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
359Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
360Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
361Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
362Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$32,970$38,630$43,6002,7800.86
363Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$37,140$37,450$41,9706900.82
364Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,220$32,320$37,81025,7500.91
365Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,220$32,320$37,81025,7500.91

What should you know about not published by BLS?

Aircraft Structures Assembler, Composite Technician, Semiconductor Fab Technician.

What should you know about metros in Kentucky?

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: Kentucky. 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 for Kentucky highlights distinct pay profiles across five key industrial roles. The CEO/President position in Kentucky shows a median of $179,530, which sits below the national median of $213,990. The middle-band width for this executive role is 178760, reflecting significant variance in total compensation reporting. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, releases are separate survey estimates.

They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. National industry data for Communications Equipment Manufacturing reports a median of $409,320, though local manufacturing-specific data is unavailable as the BLS cut is limited to national occupation-by-industry metrics.

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager role in Kentucky lists a median of $147,680, which is lower than the national median of $171,270. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. The middle-band width is 42770, a smaller range compared to the national band width of 73140. For the CFO position, the state median of $130,650 is lower than the national median of $166,570. This role has a middle-band width of 69490 in Kentucky. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, 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 Food Process Operator and Sanitation Technician roles operate on lower pay scales. The Kentucky median for Food Process Operator is $37,450, while the national median for the broader category is $39,680. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, releases are separate survey estimates. They are not the same workers' raises and do not establish a pay trend or its cause. Sanitation technicians in Kentucky report a median of $32,320, lower than the national median of $36,840 for janitors and cleaners. The middle-band width for this sanitation role in Kentucky is 8590. These metrics demonstrate regional pay variations measured against national averages for the broader SOC codes. Employment concentration is indicated by the location quotient, which is distinct from the total number of open vacancies or candidate availability in the region.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

No, the CEO/President median in Kentucky of $179,530 is lower than the national median of $213,990. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, 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.

Does Kentucky executive pay exceed the national median?

No, the CEO/President median in Kentucky of $179,530 is lower than the national median of $213,990. For manufacturing occupations in Kentucky, 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.

How has the Kentucky Food Process Operator median changed?

The median for this role changed by -3260 compared to the May 2024 reporting. This reduction is calculated from the supplied data.

What is the middle-band width for the Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Kentucky?

This represents the range between the P75 and P25 percentiles provided in the packet.

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