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The differences between machine operators and technicians can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a technician has an average salary of $38,045, which is higher than the $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.
The top three skills for a machine operator include basic math, CNC and math. The most important skills for a technician are patients, customer service, and patient care.
| Machine Operator | Technician | |
| Yearly salary | $32,874 | $38,045 |
| Hourly rate | $15.80 | $18.29 |
| Growth rate | -6% | 1% |
| Number of jobs | 96,834 | 596,842 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | 2 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | Bachelor's Degree, 32% |
| Average age | 44 | 40 |
| Years of experience | - | 2 |
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.
Technicians are skilled professionals who primarily work with technology in different industries. They are knowledgeable about the technical aspects of the various items they work with. They are usually working with electricity or with technological advancements. Technicians may be assigned to do the construction of equipment or materials related to their field of study. They may also be assigned to conduct diagnostics and other maintenance activities to ensure that the equipment works properly. Technicians may also be required to conduct basic repairs in case of problems. It is important that technicians have good analytical skills and decision-making skills.
Machine operators and technicians have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Machine Operator | Technician | |
| Average salary | $32,874 | $38,045 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $40,000 | Between $24,000 And $58,000 |
| Highest paying City | Minneapolis, MN | San Jose, CA |
| Highest paying state | Minnesota | Hawaii |
| Best paying company | BD | Microsoft |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Telecommunication |
There are a few differences between a machine operator and a technician in terms of educational background:
| Machine Operator | Technician | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | Bachelor's Degree, 32% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between machine operators' and technicians' demographics:
| Machine Operator | Technician | |
| Average age | 44 | 40 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% | Male, 75.2% Female, 24.8% |
| 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, 9.4% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 19.4% Asian, 4.9% White, 61.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 2% |