According to the National Association of Manufacturers, manufacturers in the United States are the most productive in the world. Because they far surpass productivity in other major manufacturing economies, workers enjoy higher wages and living standards. Find out how your manufacturing salary compares to the United States median annual salary in these five roles.
Information Technology Manager: Median Annual Salary $80,772
Working as an information technology manager typically requires a master’s degree in computer science of information technology or a bachelor’s degree and several years’ experience. An information technology manager understands mathematical computer languages and solves problems. They supervise, hire and train department employees. They also research and evaluate new technologies to enhance or upgrade existing servers, networks and other infrastructure equipment. Verizon pays information technology managers an average of nearly $140k annually. San Francisco pays 34% above the national average, followed by Washington at 29% and Boston at 22%.
Operations Manager: Median Annual Salary $70,056
Being employed as an operations manager involves monitoring and managing operational costs. Duties include handling decisions on hiring, compensation, promotions, discipline and termination of staff as well as managing day-to-day company or department operations. UPS offers nearly $110k on average. San Francisco and Houston pay at least 15% above the national average.
Human Resources Manager: Median Annual Salary $66,003
A role as a human resources manager involves overseeing daily operations, business planning and budget development for human resources programs. Responsibilities include planning, managing and coordinating human resources initiatives as well as handling recruitment, compensation, benefits, training and employee relations. Human resources managers with performance management and organizational development skills earn more than those without the skills. San Francisco, New York and Washington pay 20% above the national average.
Mechanical Engineer: Median Annual Salary $61,733
A mechanical engineer position requires a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, Master of Science in mechanical engineering or related degree. Certifications like the Engineer in Training (EIT) exam may be required for employment. A mechanical engineer performs engineering duties and develops, designs and tests mechanical devices as part of planning and manufacturing products. General Dynamics Electric Boat pays over $80k. Schlumberger and Ford Motor Company follow. San Francisco and Houston pay at least 13% above the national average.
Human Resources Generalist: Median Annual Salary $48,827
Employment as a human resources generalist typically requires a college degree and work experience in business, communication, management or related field. A human resources generalist administers employee compensation, training and benefits programs. They also process, verify and maintain human resources documents for staffing, training and performance evaluations. San Francisco and New York pay more than 20% above the national average.
Note: Data is based on PayScale survey data.
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