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Cellular operator vs machine operator

The differences between cellular operators and machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a cellular operator has an average salary of $33,327, which is higher than the $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.

The top three skills for a cellular operator include calipers, SPC and circuit boards. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.

Cellular operator vs machine operator overview

Cellular OperatorMachine Operator
Yearly salary$33,327$32,874
Hourly rate$16.02$15.80
Growth rate7%-6%
Number of jobs45,97096,834
Job satisfaction-5
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 33%High School Diploma, 53%
Average age4444
Years of experience--

What does a cellular operator do?

A cellular operator facilitates various services, ensuring efficiency and client satisfaction. Although they have different responsibilities depending on their company or industry of employment, it usually includes operating equipment and machinery, conducting systems inspections, troubleshooting issues, fixing or replacing components, and maintaining records. They may also conduct signal and systems maintenance checks, performing corrective measures as necessary. Moreover, in some companies, a cellular operator may directly interact with clients, assisting them by answering inquiries, discussing service specifications, and offering products and other services.

What does a machine operator do?

Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.

Cellular operator vs machine operator salary

Cellular operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.

Cellular OperatorMachine Operator
Average salary$33,327$32,874
Salary rangeBetween $26,000 And $41,000Between $26,000 And $40,000
Highest paying City-Minneapolis, MN
Highest paying state-Minnesota
Best paying company-BD
Best paying industry-Automotive

Differences between cellular operator and machine operator education

There are a few differences between a cellular operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:

Cellular OperatorMachine Operator
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 33%High School Diploma, 53%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college--

Cellular operator vs machine operator demographics

Here are the differences between cellular operators' and machine operators' demographics:

Cellular OperatorMachine Operator
Average age4444
Gender ratioMale, 56.4% Female, 43.6%Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.9% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 15.5% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2%Black or African American, 12.0% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2%
LGBT Percentage5%5%

Differences between cellular operator and machine operator duties and responsibilities

Cellular operator example responsibilities.

  • Lead pace lines in packaging OEM products.
  • Work as part of a team to meet ISO 9001 standards.
  • Facilitate training courses for board level repair including BGA.
  • Operate Fuji equipment IP equipment, DEK and MPM screen printers.
  • Experience in board / radio level analysis and repair techniques, as well as familiarity with BGA repair process.
  • Inspect incoming materials using multimeters, milliohmeters, calipers, micrometers, drop gages, Micro-Vu and go, no-go gages.
  • Show more

Machine operator example responsibilities.

  • Conduct preventative maintenance checks on industrial brake manufacturing machines and forklifts.
  • Follow company and safety procedures using industrial chemicals and PPE to efficiently clean and sanitize all equipment.
  • Operate forklift and bobcat as needed.
  • Run a line in a PVC pipe production plant.
  • Operate machinery including forklift, bobcat and various power tools.
  • Provide leadership to others through example and sharing of knowledge/skill.
  • Show more

Cellular operator vs machine operator skills

Common cellular operator skills
  • Calipers, 39%
  • SPC, 24%
  • Circuit Boards, 12%
  • Sigma, 4%
  • Machine Operation, 4%
  • Quality Standards, 4%
Common machine operator skills
  • Basic Math, 11%
  • CNC, 9%
  • Math, 9%
  • Safety Procedures, 8%
  • Machine Operation, 6%
  • Quality Standards, 5%

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