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The differences between finisher operators and machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a finisher operator has an average salary of $35,406, which is higher than the $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.
The top three skills for a finisher operator include hand tools, math and quality checks. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.
| Finisher Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $35,406 | $32,874 |
| Hourly rate | $17.02 | $15.80 |
| Growth rate | 7% | -6% |
| Number of jobs | 77,850 | 96,834 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 45% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 4 | - |
A finisher operator finalizes a product. They put on the final layer of paint, stitching, engraving or cloth on the product to complete it. They may also restore furniture by fixing dents or discoloration. They are responsible for making sure that their equipment does not malfunction and making minor repairs. They assist in trimming, molding, packing, and transporting the final product, and they are also responsible for final quality control.
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.
Finisher operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Finisher Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $35,406 | $32,874 |
| Salary range | Between $28,000 And $44,000 | Between $26,000 And $40,000 |
| Highest paying City | Horsham, PA | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Alaska | Minnesota |
| Best paying company | Elanco | BD |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a finisher operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Finisher Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 45% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between finisher operators' and machine operators' demographics:
| Finisher Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 69.4% Female, 30.6% | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 15.0% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 16.5% Asian, 2.5% White, 60.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% | 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 Percentage | 4% | 5% |