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The differences between machine operators and handle 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 $29,598 average annual salary of a handle machine operator.
The top three skills for a machine operator include basic math, CNC and math. The most important skills for a handle machine operator are forklifts, cranes, and production lines.
| Machine Operator | Handle Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $32,874 | $29,598 |
| Hourly rate | $15.80 | $14.23 |
| Growth rate | -6% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 96,834 | 110,258 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
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.
A handle machine operator is responsible for operating production machines, conducting preventive maintenance, and ensuring optimal performance to prevent delays in orders or project deliverables. Handle machine operators analyze schematics and blueprints, inspect components for inconsistencies, replace defective parts, and upgrade systems as needed for higher operational efficiency. They also create resolution records for reference and manage maintenance standards to prevent downtimes. A handle machine operator must have excellent mechanical skills, especially on identifying machine problems and following specifications.
Machine operators and handle machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Machine Operator | Handle Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $32,874 | $29,598 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $40,000 | Between $23,000 And $36,000 |
| Highest paying City | Minneapolis, MN | Redwood City, CA |
| Highest paying state | Minnesota | Pennsylvania |
| Best paying company | BD | Land O'Lakes |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a machine operator and a handle machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Machine Operator | Handle Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between machine operators' and handle machine operators' demographics:
| Machine Operator | Handle Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% | Male, 79.6% Female, 20.4% |
| Race ratio | 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% | Black or African American, 12.1% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 15.8% Asian, 7.1% White, 60.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |