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The differences between production operators and machine operators 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 $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.
The top three skills for a production operator include basic math, math and quality checks. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.
| Production Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $35,185 | $32,874 |
| Hourly rate | $16.92 | $15.80 |
| Growth rate | 7% | -6% |
| Number of jobs | 117,254 | 96,834 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 37% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
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.
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.
Production operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Production Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $35,185 | $32,874 |
| Salary range | Between $27,000 And $44,000 | Between $26,000 And $40,000 |
| Highest paying City | Bellevue, WA | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Massachusetts | Minnesota |
| Best paying company | BD | BD |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a production operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Production Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 37% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between production operators' and machine operators' demographics:
| Production Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 67.7% Female, 32.3% | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% |
| Race ratio | Black 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, 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 | 5% | 5% |