Post job

Explore jobs

Find specific jobs

Explore careers

Explore professions

Best companies

Explore companies

OverviewJobsSalaryResumeSkillsWhat They DoEducationCertificationsDemographicsJob DescriptionHow To HireBest CompaniesBest StatesBest CitiesJob Outlook

Compare

FAQsPart Time jobsEntry Level jobsFull Time jobsLocations

Production operator vs factory worker

The differences between production operators and factory workers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a production operator has an average salary of $35,185, which is higher than the $29,343 average annual salary of a factory worker.

The top three skills for a production operator include basic math, math and quality checks. The most important skills for a factory worker are line assembly, production process, and safety regulations.

Production operator vs factory worker overview

Production OperatorFactory Worker
Yearly salary$35,185$29,343
Hourly rate$16.92$14.11
Growth rate7%-
Number of jobs117,254106,768
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 37%High School Diploma, 51%
Average age4338
Years of experience--

What does a production operator do?

A production operator is responsible for handling and monitoring manufacturing machines in a factory or similar establishment, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to schedule. Aside from assisting with the processing and packaging of goods, a production operator must also conduct necessary inspections to the machine or equipment that they are using to make sure that it is in good condition and is safe to use. Should there be any issues or concerns regarding safety, it is essential to notify a supervisor right away.

What does a factory worker do?

A factory worker is responsible for manufacturing products using appropriate machinery and equipment. Factory workers' duties include processing the products based on the required quantity and specifications, labeling and safely packaging the merchandise, ensuring that the items are free of any defects before distribution, monitoring the supply inventories, reporting defected machines and equipment, and maintaining the cleanliness of the production area. A factory worker must have excellent time-management skills to produce high-quality products within a specific time frame.

Production operator vs factory worker salary

Production operators and factory workers have different pay scales, as shown below.

Production OperatorFactory Worker
Average salary$35,185$29,343
Salary rangeBetween $27,000 And $44,000Between $22,000 And $38,000
Highest paying CityBellevue, WASeattle, WA
Highest paying stateMassachusettsWashington
Best paying companyBDUPS
Best paying industryManufacturingAutomotive

Differences between production operator and factory worker education

There are a few differences between a production operator and a factory worker in terms of educational background:

Production OperatorFactory Worker
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 37%High School Diploma, 51%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college--

Production operator vs factory worker demographics

Here are the differences between production operators' and factory workers' demographics:

Production OperatorFactory Worker
Average age4338
Gender ratioMale, 67.7% Female, 32.3%Male, 56.9% Female, 43.1%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.5% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 17.7% Asian, 7.8% White, 57.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%Black or African American, 9.9% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 13.9% Asian, 5.5% White, 66.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8%
LGBT Percentage5%9%

Differences between production operator and factory worker duties and responsibilities

Production operator example responsibilities.

  • Experience following procedures and managing GMP documentation.
  • Operate stitching machine for all check bindery.
  • Break down freight onto production line, label/tot, Rf scan guns
  • Cut and inspect sheets, verify laser etching, and circuit test etched sheets.
  • Operate CNC machine, parts washer, and quality testing of parts prior to shipping.
  • Handle daily flow of paper work of production for company's records and for FDA records.
    • Show more

Factory worker example responsibilities.

  • Assemble automotive windows for Honda and Toyota
  • Assemble HVAC systems & furnaces.
  • Perform landscaping, HVAC, assemble tanning beds, and other duties as assigned.
  • Assemble parts to mowers as line move, keep parts ready to assemble and cardboard and trash clear away.
  • Maintain seasonal grounds work, lawn mowing, trimming shrubs flowerbeds, spraying pesticides, and other landscaping elements.
  • Keep production areas in compliance with sanitation standards set by HACCP, FDA, USDA, and customer's requirements.
    • Show more

Production operator vs factory worker skills

Common production operator skills
  • Basic Math, 7%
  • Math, 6%
  • Quality Checks, 5%
  • Quality Standards, 4%
  • Hand Tools, 4%
  • GMP, 4%
Common factory worker skills
  • Line Assembly, 25%
  • Production Process, 19%
  • Safety Regulations, 18%
  • Pallet Jack, 8%
  • Temp Service, 5%
  • Quality Checks, 5%

Production Operator vs. similar jobs

Production Operator related careers

Production Operator related jobs

Production Operator jobs by location

Updated January 8, 2025

Browse production and manufacturing jobs