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Salary guide, May 2025

Manufacturing pay in North Carolina

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 368 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 Top-coded, hourly-only and unpublished values are listed separately.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)$314,290
  2. Chief Operating Officer (COO)$314,290
  3. Senior Director of Operations$314,290
  4. Manufacturing Engineering Manager$167,840
  5. Process Engineering Manager$167,840
  6. Controls / Automation Manager$167,840
  7. VP of Engineering$167,840
  8. Director of R&D$167,840
  9. Director of Manufacturing Engineering$167,840
  10. NPI Manager$167,840
  11. Capital Projects Manager$167,840
  12. Lead Manufacturing Engineer$167,840
  13. Senior Industrial Engineer$167,840
  14. Senior Packaging Engineer$167,840
  15. Director of Automation$167,840
  16. Automation Manager$167,840
  17. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)$167,840
  18. R&D Manager$167,840
  19. R&D Engineer$167,840
  20. Engineering Manager (Product)$167,840
  21. Senior Mechanical Design Engineer$167,840
  22. Lead Product Development Engineer$167,840
  23. CFO (Manufacturing)$166,780
  24. Corporate Controller$166,780
  25. Plant Controller$166,780

Bars show the top 25 of 368 ranked. The table below lists all 368. Literal BLS medians, May 2025.

Roles in North Carolina, ranked by exact annual median (May 2025)
RankRoleBLS occupation25thMedian75thEmploymentLQ
1CEO / President (Manufacturing)Chief Executives (11-1011)$182,980$314,290$442,0801,9300.3
2Chief Operating Officer (COO)Chief Executives (11-1011)$182,980$314,290$442,0801,9300.3
3Senior Director of OperationsChief Executives (11-1011)$182,980$314,290$442,0801,9300.3
4Manufacturing Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
5Process Engineering ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
6Controls / Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
7VP of EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
8Director of R&DArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
9Director of Manufacturing EngineeringArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
10NPI ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
11Capital Projects ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
12Lead Manufacturing EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
13Senior Industrial EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
14Senior Packaging EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
15Director of AutomationArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
16Automation ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
17Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
18R&D ManagerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
19R&D EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
20Engineering Manager (Product)Architectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
21Senior Mechanical Design EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
22Lead Product Development EngineerArchitectural and Engineering Managers (11-9041)$137,210$167,840$201,2306,9600.99
23CFO (Manufacturing)Financial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
24Corporate ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
25Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
26VP of FinanceFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
27Division ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
28Assistant Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
29FP&A Manager (Operations)Financial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
30Senior Plant ControllerFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
31Senior Cost AccountantFinancial Managers (11-3031)$129,780$166,780$223,54022,4600.84
32VP of Sales (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
33Regional Sales Manager / Technical Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
34Director of SalesSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
35National Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
36Key Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
37National Account ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
38Business Development ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
39Territory Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
40Channel / Distributor Sales ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
41Product Manager (Industrial)Sales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
42Field Service ManagerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
43Senior Applications EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
44Lead Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
45Traveling Field Service EngineerSales Managers (11-2022)$100,480$150,470$211,95016,9200.84
46Plant HR ManagerHuman Resources Managers (11-3121)$115,850$142,990$187,5206,4800.92
47Regulatory Affairs ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
48EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
49EHS DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
50Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
51Environmental ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
52Process Safety ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
53S&OP ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
54Trade Compliance ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
55Service / Aftermarket ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
56Environmental EngineerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
57Sustainability Manager / DirectorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
58Senior EHS ManagerManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
59EHS CoordinatorManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
60Director of PlanningManagers, All Other (11-9199)$104,050$141,160$182,39021,8301.1
61Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$110,290$138,710$177,5002,6701
62Strategic Sourcing ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$110,290$138,710$177,5002,6701
63Procurement ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$110,290$138,710$177,5002,6701
64Director of ProcurementPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$110,290$138,710$177,5002,6701
65Commodity ManagerPurchasing Managers (11-3061)$110,290$138,710$177,5002,6701
66PLC ProgrammerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,530$134,710$164,75058,4701.09
67MES EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,530$134,710$164,75058,4701.09
68SCADA / HMI EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,530$134,710$164,75058,4701.09
69Manufacturing Systems / OT EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,530$134,710$164,75058,4701.09
70Firmware / Embedded EngineerSoftware Developers (15-1252)$104,530$134,710$164,75058,4701.09
71Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
72Plant Director / Site DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
73Assistant Plant ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
74Operations ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
75Manufacturing ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
76Production ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
77Shift Manager (2nd / 3rd shift)Industrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
78Plant Startup / Launch ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
79Sanitation ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
80VP of Quality / Chief Quality OfficerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
81Director of QualityIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
82Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
83QC ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
84Supplier Quality ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
85Quality Systems ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
86FSQA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
87FSQA DirectorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
88Food Safety Coordinator / SQF PractitionerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
89QA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
90Production SuperintendentIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
91Area ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
92Value Stream ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
93Department ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
94Sanitation SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
95Bilingual Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
96Second Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
97Third Shift Production SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
98QC Lab ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
99Validation / CQV ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
100CAPA ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
101Metrology / Calibration ManagerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
102Lead Quality EngineerIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
103Quality SupervisorIndustrial Production Managers (11-3051)$97,460$125,940$161,3309,6401.23
104Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$87,790$121,530$164,3102,5301.54
105Inside Sales EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$87,790$121,530$164,3102,5301.54
106Proposal / Quotation EngineerSales Engineers (41-9031)$87,790$121,530$164,3102,5301.54
107Injection Molding Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$95,920$117,410$141,2603800.56
108Extrusion Process EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$95,920$117,410$141,2603800.56
109MS&T EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$95,920$117,410$141,2603800.56
110Process Development EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$95,920$117,410$141,2603800.56
111Tech Transfer EngineerChemical Engineers (17-2041)$95,920$117,410$141,2603800.56
112Automation EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
113Robotics EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
114Machine Vision EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
115Product Development EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
116Applications EngineerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
117Applications Engineering ManagerEngineers, All Other (17-2199)$85,240$112,450$140,7904,2700.87
118Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
119Electrical Engineer (Plant)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
120Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
121Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
122Senior Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
123Lead Controls TechnicianElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
124Panel Design Engineer (UL 508A)Electrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
125Lead Controls EngineerElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
126Controls SupervisorElectrical Engineers (17-2071)$79,370$110,130$148,3307,0901.12
127Facilities ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$83,290$108,130$134,1204,8100.97
128Facilities EngineerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$83,290$108,130$134,1204,8100.97
129Utilities / Energy ManagerFacilities Managers (11-3013)$83,290$108,130$134,1204,8100.97
130VP of Supply Chain / Director of Supply ChainTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
131Supply Chain ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
132Materials ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
133Logistics ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
134Warehouse Manager / Distribution Center ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
135Chief Supply Chain OfficerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
136Category Manager (Direct Materials)Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
137Inventory Control ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
138Senior Production PlannerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
139Senior BuyerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
140Director of LogisticsTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
141Transportation ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
142Warehouse SupervisorTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
143Shipping & Receiving ManagerTransportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers (11-3071)$82,870$106,100$143,4906,6500.95
144Materials EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$86,400$104,240$127,5606400.88
145Metallurgist / Metallurgical EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$86,400$104,240$127,5606400.88
146Polymer / Plastics EngineerMaterials Engineers (17-2131)$86,400$104,240$127,5606400.88
147QC Microbiology ManagerMedical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042)$79,780$102,980$134,5605,7301.05
148VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
149VP of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
150Regional VP of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
151General Manager (Manufacturing)General and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
152Director of OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
153EVP / SVP OperationsGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
154Division / Business Unit General ManagerGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
155Director of ManufacturingGeneral and Operations Managers (11-1021)$66,800$101,950$162,17063,7400.57
156Project Engineer / Capital Projects ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$77,970$100,820$130,69036,2001.07
157Program ManagerProject Management Specialists (13-1082)$77,970$100,820$130,69036,2001.07
158Packaging EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
159Tooling EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
160Welding EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
161Plant EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
162Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
163Packaging Development EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
164Plant Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
165Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
166Product Design EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
167Product EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
168Systems EngineerMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
169CAD Designer / DrafterMechanical Engineers (17-2141)$82,490$100,720$125,0509,5601.01
170Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
171Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
172Industrial EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
173Yield Engineer (Semiconductor)Industrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
174Battery Cell Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
175Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
176Supplier Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
177Customer Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
178Design Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
179Validation EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
180Reliability EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
181Reliability ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
182Continuous Improvement ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
183Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
184Lean Six Sigma Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
185Director of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
186Supplier Development EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
187Lean ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
188Senior Manufacturing EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
189Senior Process EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
190Mold / Die Design EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
191Test EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
192Senior Quality EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
193Quality Engineering ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
194Quality Systems Engineer / SpecialistIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
195Maintenance EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
196EHS EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
197VP of Operational ExcellenceIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
198Director of Continuous ImprovementIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
199Lean Specialist / CoordinatorIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
200Master Black BeltIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
201Senior Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
202Lead Continuous Improvement EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
203Supplier Development ManagerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
204Material Flow / Logistics EngineerIndustrial Engineers (17-2112)$81,190$99,310$121,09011,5801
205Safety Specialist / CoordinatorOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$73,720$86,650$105,9904,6701.05
206Industrial HygienistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$73,720$86,650$105,9904,6701.05
207Environmental Permitting SpecialistOccupational Health and Safety Specialists (19-5011)$73,720$86,650$105,9904,6701.05
208Formulation ChemistChemists (19-2031)$66,760$82,620$106,2404,5301.72
209Cost AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,120$82,050$108,09049,2701.07
210Cost Accounting ManagerAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,120$82,050$108,09049,2701.07
211Senior Cost AnalystAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,120$82,050$108,09049,2701.07
212Inventory AccountantAccountants and Auditors (13-2011)$65,120$82,050$108,09049,2701.07
213Food ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$67,760$79,840$105,7802300.56
214Product Development ScientistFood Scientists and Technologists (19-1012)$67,760$79,840$105,7802300.56
215Quality Auditor / Lead AuditorCompliance Officers (13-1041)$59,600$78,500$103,81011,3200.85
216Document Control ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$59,600$78,500$103,81011,3200.85
217Regulatory Compliance ManagerCompliance Officers (13-1041)$59,600$78,500$103,81011,3200.85
218Maintenance ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
219Director of MaintenanceFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
220Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
221Maintenance & Engineering ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
222Asset Management / CMMS ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
223Tool Room ManagerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
224Lead Maintenance TechnicianFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
225Senior Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
226Lead Reliability EngineerFirst-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers (49-1011)$60,950$76,800$97,17021,1101.08
227PLC / Controls TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$64,020$76,740$86,3301,6600.8
228Robotics TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$64,020$76,740$86,3301,6600.8
229Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$64,020$76,740$86,3301,6600.8
230Semiconductor Equipment TechnicianElectrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094)$64,020$76,740$86,3301,6600.8
231Buyer / Senior BuyerBuyers and Purchasing Agents (13-1020)$60,000$75,880$97,55014,2900.92
232NDT TechnicianEngineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (17-3029)$53,670$72,070$84,9301,5300.8
233Production SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
234Line LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
235Shift SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
236Packaging SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
237Production Team LeadFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
238CNC Machining SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
239Welding SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
240Packaging Maintenance SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers (51-1011)$56,790$69,640$83,18022,2401.04
241Overhead Crane Operator & RiggerCrane and Tower Operators (53-7021)$55,070$64,480$77,6701,0500.77
242CNC ProgrammerComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers (51-9162)$53,040$63,990$78,0907600.84
243Electromechanical / Mechatronics TechnicianElectro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024)$57,810$63,330$76,9308001.62
244MillwrightMillwrights (49-9044)$56,150$62,990$72,6807000.55
245Chemical OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$51,880$62,920$66,3706601.26
246Control Room (DCS) OperatorChemical Plant and System Operators (51-8091)$51,880$62,920$66,3706601.26
247Field Service EngineerIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
248Industrial Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
249Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
250Line TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
251Maintenance MechanicIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
252Multi-Craft Maintenance TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
253Hydraulic / Fluid Power TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
254Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer (Plant Utilities)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
255Predictive Maintenance (PdM) TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
256Forklift / Material Handling Equipment TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
257Maintenance Technician AIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
258Maintenance Technician BIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
259Maintenance Technician CIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
260Traveling MillwrightIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
261Filler OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
262Packaging OperatorIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
263End-of-Line Operator (palletizer and robot cell)Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
264Lead Packaging TechnicianIndustrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041)$49,650$62,430$74,42015,7201.13
265Bioprocess TechnicianBiological Technicians (19-4021)$48,790$61,720$66,5702,4601.11
266Tool and Die MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$49,610$61,060$70,5101,5800.87
267Mold MakerTool and Die Makers (51-4111)$49,610$61,060$70,5101,5800.87
268Calibration TechnicianCalibration Technologists and Technicians (17-3028)$51,650$61,000$84,3704100.79
269Logistics SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$48,490$60,070$74,99021,5401.09
270Shipping SupervisorFirst-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors (53-1047)$48,490$60,070$74,99021,5401.09
271QC Lab TechnicianChemical Technicians (19-4031)$47,710$59,030$74,9902,6601.46
272Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia) TechnicianHeating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021)$46,830$57,260$64,31015,2301.17
273Industrial ElectricianElectricians (47-2111)$47,070$56,800$61,92021,6400.9
274Semiconductor Fab TechnicianSemiconductor Processing Technicians (51-9141)$45,000$56,160$65,960600.06
275CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
2765-Axis CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
277Swiss CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
278CNC Machine OperatorMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
279Horizontal Boring Mill (HBM) MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
280Manual MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
281EDM Machinist (Wire and Sinker)Machinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
282CNC Grinder / Precision GrinderMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
283Lead MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
284Machinist AMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
285Machinist BMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
286Machinist CMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
287Senior CNC MachinistMachinists (51-4041)$45,300$55,230$62,6808,3300.91
288Extrusion TechnicianExtruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4021)$44,470$53,330$56,8402,9501.52
289Maintenance Planner / SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
290Production Planner / Master SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
291Inventory Control SpecialistProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
292Demand PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
293Supply PlannerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
294Production SchedulerProduction, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061)$44,670$52,640$63,81013,0001.05
295Aircraft Structures AssemblerAircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers (51-2011)$48,210$51,930$58,5906700.62
296Production Welder (MIG)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
297TIG WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
298Code Welder (ASME / Pressure Vessel)Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
299Welder-FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
300Fitter / Layout FitterWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
301Sheet Metal FabricatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
302Laser / Plasma / Waterjet Cutting OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
303Heat Treat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
304Plating / Anodizing TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
305Industrial Painter / Powder Coat TechnicianWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
306Foundry Molder / Melt OperatorWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
307Lead WelderWelders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (51-4121)$45,400$50,590$60,87011,7500.89
308CNC Setup MachinistComputer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161)$44,130$50,440$64,0803,6800.68
309GMP Manufacturing TechnicianChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$43,820$49,650$59,9905,2601.19
310Aseptic Fill OperatorChemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (51-9011)$43,820$49,650$59,9905,2601.19
311Robotic Welding TechnicianWelding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-4122)$40,380$47,580$62,7108200.82
312Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
313Quality TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
314CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
315Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
316Food Safety / QA TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
317First Article InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
318Receiving / Source InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
319Metrology TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
320Microbiology Lab TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
321Environmental Monitoring TechnicianInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
322Lead Quality InspectorInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
323Senior CMM ProgrammerInspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061)$37,180$46,430$57,22019,7001.04
324Skilled Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
325Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
326Machine Builder (equipment OEM assembly fitter)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
327Cleanroom Assembler (Medical Device)Engine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
328Senior Electronics Test TechnicianEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
329Lead Mechanical AssemblerEngine and Other Machine Assemblers (51-2031)$38,780$45,750$58,4502,7502.55
330Flexographic Press OperatorPrinting Press Operators (51-5112)$36,910$45,630$53,6703,9100.85
331Electronics Assembler / SoldererElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$37,650$45,080$48,2906,7800.86
332Wire Harness & Cable AssemblerElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$37,650$45,080$48,2906,7800.86
333SMT TechnicianElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$37,650$45,080$48,2906,7800.86
334Control Panel BuilderElectrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers (51-2028)$37,650$45,080$48,2906,7800.86
335Composite TechnicianFiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (51-2051)$38,430$43,890$48,0308501.65
336Certified Forklift OperatorIndustrial Truck and Tractor Operators (53-7051)$38,080$43,420$47,51026,8301.09
337Press Brake OperatorCutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$37,390$43,400$50,0903,9400.72
338Die Setter (Stamping)Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031)$37,390$43,400$50,0903,9400.72
339Shipping & Receiving LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
340Hazmat Shipping SpecialistShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
341Warehouse LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
342Skilled Material Handler (ERP / MRP transactions, line feeding)Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
343Production / Material ExpediterShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
344Kitting LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
345Inventory Control LeadShipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (43-5071)$36,670$43,040$48,98020,1500.78
346Injection Molding TechnicianMolding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072)$36,150$41,630$49,4407,5701.58
347Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
348Setup TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
349Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
350Battery Cell Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
351CIP TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
352Skilled Machine OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
353Utility / Relief OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
354Production Trainer (OJT Trainer)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
355Senior Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
356Lead Production TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
357Converting Operator (slitter, laminator, bag machine, die cutter)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
358Batch Maker / CompounderProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
359Paper Machine Operator (Machine Tender)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
360Industrial Wastewater Treatment OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
361Solid Dose Operator (granulation, compression, encapsulation, coating)Production Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
362Retort / Thermal Process OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
363Brewer / Cellar OperatorProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
364Senior Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
365Lead Process TechnicianProduction Workers, All Other (51-9199)$34,270$38,790$48,37018,3502.29
366Food Process OperatorFood Processing Workers, All Other (51-3099)$35,110$37,360$42,6004,7702.31
367Sanitation TechnicianJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,240$34,500$37,23053,3300.76
368Sanitation LeadJanitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (37-2011)$29,240$34,500$37,23053,3300.76

What should you know about metros in North Carolina?

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Area: North Carolina. 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 analyzes the North Carolina market, where roles such as Manufacturing Engineering Manager show a median of $167,840, lower than the national median of $171,270. The middle band width for this role in the state is $64,020. The CEO / President category in North Carolina reports a median of $314,290, which is significantly higher than the national median of $213,990. The middle band width for this executive category in the state is $259,100. CFOs earn a median of $166,780, very close to the national median of $166,570. The middle band width for the CFO role is $93,760. For the Food Process Operator, the state median is $37,360, while the national median is $39,680. Sanitation Technicians in North Carolina report a median of $34,500, with a middle band width of $7,990. For manufacturing occupations in North Carolina, 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 location quotient measures the relative density of these roles in North Carolina. Comparisons use major metros like Pinehurst-Southern Pines and Durham-Chapel Hill to provide a regional wage context. Because industry-specific data is limited to national aggregates, hiring managers should avoid using these subsector numbers to set local compensation. The occupational mapping aligns with standard BLS definitions, but remember that specific job duties at a plant level may vary significantly from these broad categories. The provided middle band width values offer a look at the wage variance within the state. These figures serve as a baseline for talent acquisition, but do not replace the need for internal equity reviews and specific role-based requirements. It is best to use these figures to understand broad compensation patterns rather than to set exact pay for any individual candidate.

Which pay questions should you settle before hiring?

For manufacturing occupations in North Carolina, 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.

Why do CEO medians vary so much between states?

CEO pay is highly dependent on the organizational structure, firm size, and the specific mix of industries within a state. These factors drive the variance against national medians.

Can I use the national industry medians for North Carolina?

No: The OEWS industry-specific data is strictly national. Using these figures for local planning would lead to inaccurate conclusions regarding local market rates.

What should I do if the middle band width is very large?

For manufacturing occupations in North Carolina, 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. You must assess the experience level of your specific opening.

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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