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The differences between insert operators and machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a machine operator has an average salary of $32,874, which is higher than the $32,457 average annual salary of an insert operator.
The top three skills for an insert operator include quality standards, quality checks and machine operation. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.
| Insert Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $32,457 | $32,874 |
| Hourly rate | $15.60 | $15.80 |
| Growth rate | 7% | -6% |
| Number of jobs | 41,080 | 96,834 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 44% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Average age | 45 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
An insert operator's job is to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot the insert machine to produce accurate work on a timely basis. The operator conducts quality checks and performs other tasks whenever needed as he/she works with one or more machines from time to time depending on workload and date of delivery (DOD). He/she may be able to adapt to changing dynamic production environment since the job involves multitasking, must possess good verbal and written communication skills, basic mechanical and trouble-shooting skills, and must be flexible in the work schedule based on volume needs.
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.
Insert operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Insert Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $32,457 | $32,874 |
| Salary range | Between $25,000 And $41,000 | Between $26,000 And $40,000 |
| Highest paying City | South Windsor, CT | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Minnesota |
| Best paying company | ABB | BD |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Automotive |
There are a few differences between an insert operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Insert Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 44% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between insert operators' and machine operators' demographics:
| Insert Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 45 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 55.4% Female, 44.6% | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 9.3% Unknown, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 17.0% Asian, 6.9% White, 62.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7% | 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 | 7% | 5% |