Factory Jobs USA: Earn $35K-$60K Yearly

Factory Jobs USA: Earn $35K-$60K in America’s Manufacturing Sector 2025/2026

The US manufacturing sector offers stable, well-paying career opportunities for millions of Americans, with factory workers earning between $35,885 and $60,000 annually. With manufacturing wages averaging $28.87 per hour nationwide and the industry contributing $2.90 trillion to the U.S. economy, factory jobs represent a cornerstone of American employment and economic prosperity.

About Factory Employment in the USA

America’s manufacturing sector remains a vital component of the national economy, employing millions of workers across diverse industries from automotive and aerospace to food processing and electronics. Despite facing challenges from automation and global competition, U.S. manufacturing continues to provide substantial employment opportunities with competitive wages and benefits.

The sector has shown resilience and adaptation, with companies increasingly investing in advanced manufacturing technologies while maintaining strong demand for skilled workers. Factory jobs in the USA offer more than just employment—they provide pathways to middle-class stability, career advancement, and economic security for workers across all skill levels.

Salary Structure for the Factory Jobs

National Average The average factory worker in the United state earns nothing less than $35,885 or an equivalent hourly rate of $17. However, wages vary significantly based on location, experience, industry, and specific role responsibilities.

Hourly Wage Ranges

PayScale reports the average hourly pay for a Factory Worker is $17.73 in 2025
Indeed data shows factory workers earn an average of $16.82 per hour based on 575 recent salary reports
Manufacturing Workers earn an average of $19.35 per hour according to PayScale
ZipRecruiter data indicates manufacturing jobs pay an average of $24.95 per hour, with ranges from $13.94 to $34.62

Manufacturing Industry Wages Average hourly wages in manufacturing remained at $28.87 per hour in June 2025, representing higher compensation for skilled manufacturing positions compared to general factory work.

Salary by Experience Level

Entry-Level Factory Workers (0-2 years)

Annual Salary: $28,000 – $35,000
Hourly Rate: $13.50 – $17.00
Typical Roles: Assembly line workers, packers, material handlers

Experienced Factory Workers (3-7 years)

Annual Salary: $35,000 – $45,000
Hourly Rate: $17.00 – $22.00
Typical Roles: Machine operators, quality control inspectors, lead workers

Senior Factory Workers (8+ years)

Annual Salary: $45,000 – $60,000
Hourly Rate: $22.00 – $29.00
Typical Roles: Supervisors, maintenance technicians, specialized operators

Industry-Specific Salary Variations

Automotive Manufacturing

Assembly Workers: $40,000 – $55,000 annually
Quality Control: $42,000 – $58,000 annually
Maintenance Technicians: $50,000 – $70,000 annually

Food Processing

Production Workers: $30,000 – $42,000 annually
Food Safety Inspectors: $38,000 – $52,000 annually
Equipment Operators: $35,000 – $48,000 annually

Electronics Manufacturing

Circuit Board Assemblers: $32,000 – $45,000 annually
Testing Technicians: $40,000 – $55,000 annually
Clean Room Operators: $38,000 – $52,000 annually

Chemical Manufacturing

Process Operators: $45,000 – $65,000 annually
Safety Technicians: $50,000 – $70,000 annually
Laboratory Assistants: $40,000 – $56,000 annually

Regional Salary Differences Across the USA

Highest-Paying States for Factory Jobs

Washington is the highest paying state for Manufacturing jobs, with several states offering premium wages for factory workers:

Top-Paying States:

Washington: $45,000 – $62,000 annually
California: $42,000 – $58,000 annually
Massachusetts: $40,000 – $55,000 annually
Connecticut: $39,000 – $54,000 annually
New York: $38,000 – $53,000 annually

Strong Manufacturing States with Competitive Wages:

Texas: $35,000 – $50,000 annually (high volume of opportunities)
Ohio: $33,000 – $47,000 annually (automotive hub)
Michigan: $36,000 – $52,000 annually (automotive industry)
Indiana: $32,000 – $46,000 annually (diverse manufacturing)
North Carolina: $31,000 – $45,000 annually (textile and furniture)

Cost of Living Considerations

While some states offer higher absolute wages, the cost of living adjustment often makes states like Texas, Ohio, and Indiana attractive for factory workers. These states provide:

Lower housing costs
Reasonable living expenses
Strong manufacturing job markets
Career advancement opportunities

Manufacturing Workforce Challenges and Opportunities

Current Workforce Shortage

The U.S. faces a shortfall of 1.9 million manufacturing workers by 2033; 3.8 million positions will open up, but nearly half could go unfilled. This shortage creates exceptional opportunities for job seekers, including:

Higher starting wages
Signing bonuses and retention incentives
Accelerated career advancement
Enhanced benefits packages
Comprehensive training programs

Skills Gap Challenges

American manufacturers say they are struggling to fill the manufacturing jobs we already have, despite political efforts to bring back manufacturing. This skills gap presents opportunities for workers willing to:

Learn new technologies
Develop technical skills
Pursue manufacturing certifications
Adapt to automated systems

Types of Factory Jobs Available

Production and Assembly Roles

Assembly Line Workers: Assembling products according to specifications
Machine Operators: Operating manufacturing equipment and machinery
Quality Control Inspectors: Ensuring products meet quality standards
Packaging and Shipping Workers: Preparing products for distribution

Maintenance and Technical Positions

Maintenance Technicians: Repairing and maintaining factory equipment
Electricians: Installing and maintaining electrical systems
Mechanical Technicians: Servicing mechanical equipment
Automation Specialists: Working with robotic and automated systems

Supervisory and Leadership Roles

Shift Supervisors: Managing production teams and operations
Team Leaders: Leading specific production areas or processes
Production Managers: Overseeing entire manufacturing operations
Safety Coordinators: Ensuring workplace safety compliance

Specialized Technical Positions

CNC Operators: Operating computer-controlled machines
Welders: Metal fabrication and joining
Forklift Operators: Material handling and warehouse operations
Laboratory Technicians: Testing and quality assurance

Benefits and Advantages of Factory Work

Financial Benefits

Competitive Wages: Many factory jobs offer wages above minimum wage
Overtime Opportunities: Time-and-a-half pay for extra hours
Shift Differentials: Premium pay for evening and night shifts
Performance Bonuses: Productivity and safety incentive payments

Comprehensive Benefits Packages

Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Retirement Plans: 401(k) plans with employer matching
Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and personal time
Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options

Career Development Opportunities

Skills Training: On-the-job training and certification programs
Tuition Assistance: Educational support for career advancement
Internal Promotions: Clear pathways to supervisory roles
Cross-Training: Exposure to multiple manufacturing processes

Job Security and Stability

Essential Industry: Manufacturing remains crucial to the economy
Union Protection: Many factory jobs offer union representation
Steady Employment: Consistent work schedules and job stability
Recession Resilience: Manufacturing often rebounds quickly after economic downturns

Manufacturing Industry Growth Outlook

2025 Growth Projections

Projections for 2025 reveal a 4.2% increase in overall revenues, coupled with a 5.2% rise in capital expenditures and modest employment growth. This positive outlook indicates:

Increased hiring across manufacturing sectors
Investment in new technologies and equipment
Expansion of existing manufacturing facilities
Creation of new manufacturing jobs

Long-Term Industry Trends

Reshoring and Near-shoring

Companies bringing production back to the United States
Reduced dependence on overseas manufacturing
Investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities
Creation of new factory jobs across various industries

Advanced Manufacturing Technologies

Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning
Expansion of additive manufacturing (3D printing)
Implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) systems
Development of smart factory technologies

Sustainable Manufacturing

Green manufacturing processes and technologies
Renewable energy adoption in factories
Waste reduction and recycling initiatives
Environmental compliance and sustainability roles

Requirements and Qualifications for Factory Jobs

Basic Requirements

High School Diploma or GED: Minimum education requirement for most positions
Physical Fitness: Ability to stand, lift, and perform physical tasks
Reliability: Consistent attendance and punctuality
Safety Awareness: Understanding of workplace safety protocols

Technical Skills

Basic Math and Reading: Understanding measurements, instructions, and procedures
Computer Literacy: Familiarity with computerized systems and equipment
Mechanical Aptitude: Understanding of how machines and equipment operate
Attention to Detail: Precision in following procedures and quality standards

Preferred Qualifications

Manufacturing Experience: Previous factory or production experience
Technical Certifications: Industry-specific certifications and training
Forklift License: Certification for material handling equipment
Safety Training: OSHA certifications and safety course completion

Challenges Facing Factory Workers

Physical Demands

Repetitive Motion: Risk of repetitive stress injuries
Long Hours: Extended shifts and overtime requirements
Physical Labor: Lifting, standing, and manual dexterity requirements
Environmental Conditions: Exposure to noise, heat, and industrial environments

Industry Changes

Automation: Increasing use of robotic systems and automated processes
Skill Requirements: Need for continuous learning and skill development
Global Competition: Pressure from international manufacturing
Economic Fluctuations: Sensitivity to economic cycles and market conditions

Work-Life Balance

Shift Work: Evening, night, and weekend work requirements
Overtime Demands: Pressure to work additional hours during busy periods
Physical Fatigue: Impact of demanding physical work on personal time
Scheduling Constraints: Limited flexibility in work schedules

Career Advancement in Manufacturing

Progression Pathways

Production Worker → Team Leader → Supervisor → Manager

Typical progression timeline: 5-10 years
Salary increase potential: $15,000-$25,000
Additional responsibilities and management duties

Machine Operator → Maintenance Technician → Maintenance Supervisor

Technical skill development and specialized training
Higher wages and job security
Critical role in factory operations

Quality Inspector → Quality Manager → Plant Manager

Focus on quality systems and process improvement
Leadership and management responsibilities
Significant salary advancement potential

Skills Development Opportunities

Apprenticeship Programs: Paid training in specific trades and skills
Community College Partnerships: Associate degrees in manufacturing technology
Professional Certifications: Industry-recognized credentials and qualifications
Leadership Training: Management and supervisory skill development

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average salary for factory jobs in the USA?

The average factory worker salary in the United States is $35,885 annually or $17 per hour. However, wages vary significantly based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions typically start at $28,000-$35,000 per year, while experienced workers can earn $45,000-$60,000 annually. Manufacturing workers in specialized roles earn an average of $19.35 per hour, with some positions paying up to $34.62 per hour according to ZipRecruiter data.

2. What qualifications do I need to get a factory job in the USA?

Most factory jobs require a high school diploma or GED as the minimum education requirement. Essential qualifications include physical fitness for manual labor, reliability and punctuality, basic math and reading skills, and safety awareness. Preferred qualifications include previous manufacturing experience, technical certifications, forklift licenses, and OSHA safety training. Many employers provide on-the-job training for specific equipment and processes.

3. Are factory jobs in high demand in the USA?

Yes, factory jobs are in high demand across the United States. The country faces a projected shortfall of 1.9 million manufacturing workers by 2033, with 3.8 million positions expected to open up but nearly half potentially going unfilled. This shortage creates excellent opportunities for job seekers, including higher starting wages, signing bonuses, accelerated career advancement, and comprehensive training programs. Manufacturing growth is projected to increase by 4.2% in 2025.

4. Which states pay the highest salaries for factory workers?

Washington is the highest paying state for manufacturing jobs, followed by California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York. These states offer annual salaries ranging from $38,000-$62,000 for factory workers. However, states like Texas, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana offer competitive wages ($32,000-$52,000) with significantly lower costs of living, making them attractive for factory workers seeking better value for their earnings.

5. What are the biggest challenges facing factory workers today?

Factory workers face several challenges including physical demands such as repetitive motion, long hours, and exposure to industrial environments. Industry changes like increasing automation require continuous learning and skill development. Work-life balance can be challenging due to shift work, overtime demands, and scheduling constraints. However, these challenges are often offset by competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, job security, and clear career advancement opportunities in the growing manufacturing sector.

Apply for Factory Jobs in the USA

1. Indeed Manufacturing Jobs

Indeed features over 400,000 factory and manufacturing job listings across all 50 states, including positions for assembly workers, machine operators, quality inspectors, and maintenance technicians.

2. Monster Manufacturing Careers

Monster specializes in connecting factory workers with manufacturing employers nationwide,

Conclusion

Factory jobs in the USA continue to offer stable, well-paying career opportunities in an essential industry that drives American economic prosperity. With projected growth of 4.2% in 2025 and a significant workforce shortage creating abundant opportunities, there has never been a better time to pursue a manufacturing career.