7 Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components: How to Secure a Lucrative Career in this Field
The industrial machinery and components industry is a vital sector of the economy, responsible for the production of a wide range of goods and services. This sector employs a significant number of workers, many of whom are highly skilled and paid well above average wages.
The reason people can command such high salaries are multiple. One, the industry is essential to the functioning of society and the economy, so there is always a high demand for workers. Two, many of the jobs in this sector are highly skilled and require a great deal of training and experience. Three, few people actually want to do these jobs, so those who are willing to do them can command a higher salary.
If you’re looking for a high-paying career, industrial machinery and components is definitely an industry worth considering. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best-paid jobs in this sector and give you some tips on how to secure one of these lucrative positions.
What Is Industrial Machinery?
Industrial machinery is any kind of machinery or equipment that is used for industrial purposes. This includes a wide range of machines, from simple hand-operated tools to complex heavy duty machines.
Some examples of industrial machinery include:
- Assembly line robots — such as those used in the automotive industry
- Machine tools — such as lathes and milling machines
- Conveyor belts — used to move materials around factories
- Packaging machines — such as those used in food and beverage industries
All of these are machines used to create or process goods and materials used in various industries.
The industrial machinery and components industry comprises establishments manufacturing a variety of goods, including engines, turbines, boiler equipment, pumps and compressors, material handling equipment, power transmission equipment, metalworking machinery, plastics and rubber working machinery, textile machinery, woodworking machinery, paper industries machinery, printing presses, and food and beverage processing machinery.
This industry also includes establishments that manufacture a variety of other products, such as electric lighting equipment, navigational and guidance instruments, medical equipment and supplies, motor vehicles, aircrafts, farm machinery, construction machinery, mining machinery, office machines and automatic teller machines (ATMs).
Basically, anything that gets made in a factory or industrial setting uses some kind of machinery, and that machinery falls under the industrial machinery and components industry.
This industry is vital to the economy as it produces the machines and equipment used in all other sectors of the economy. For example, without assembly line robots, cars would have to be assembled by hand, which would be much more time-consuming and expensive.
The industrial machinery and components industry is also responsible for a large amount of exports, making it one of the pillars of our economy.
Let’s now see the best paying jobs in industrial machinery/components.
The Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components
There are dozens of different jobs in the industrial machinery and components industry, from entry-level positions to highly skilled jobs that require years of experience. Here, we are considering the ones that require experience, as we want to focus on the best-paid jobs in this sector. We will also drop a short list of entry-level positions so that you can get an idea of how to get into the field.
Here is the list of the best paying jobs in industrial machinery/components.
1. Machinist
The first job we’ll look at is that of a machinist. Machinists are responsible for the operation of various types of machinery, including lathes, milling machines, and drill presses. A machinist typically starts their day by inspecting the machines they will be using and making sure they are in proper working order. They then start the machines and begin to produce parts or components according to the specifications provided by their supervisor.
They must constantly adjust the machines to ensure that the parts they are creating meet the required specifications. They must also keep a close eye on the quality of the parts they are producing, and make any necessary adjustments.
In addition, machinists must occasionally perform maintenance on the machines they are using. This includes cleaning and lubricating the machines, as well as replacing worn or damaged parts.
Machinists must have a high level of skill and training to be able to operate these machines safely and effectively. The median annual salary for a machinist is $47,940, with the top earners making over $80,000 per year.
To become a machinist, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, you can either receive on-the-job training or complete an apprenticeship program. Alternatively, you can also attend a trade school or community college to receive the necessary training.
2. Operations managers
The next job on our list is that of an operations manager. Operations managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a manufacturing plant or factory. This includes overseeing production, quality control, shipping, and receiving. Operation managers also deal with the human side of things, such as hiring and firing employees, managing schedules, and dealing with employee issues.
Operations managers must ensure that the products being produced meet the required specifications and that they are being produced in a timely and efficient manner. They must also ensure that the workers are following safety procedures and that they are properly trained.
In addition, operations managers must develop and implement plans to improve production efficiency and quality. They must also resolve any issues that arise in the manufacturing process.
Operations managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. However, some operations managers may have a degree in engineering or another field related to the industry they are working in. The median annual salary for an operations manager is $115,250.
3. Crane and Tower Operators
Crane and tower operators are responsible for the operation of various types of cranes and towers. Cranes are a fascinating view in a city landscape. They tower over buildings, often carrying heavy loads. They are responsible for the construction and maintenance of tall structures, such as bridges and skyscrapers.
Tower operators work with a variety of cranes, including derricks, jibs, and gantry cranes. They use these cranes to lift, move, and position materials. Tower operators must be able to control the crane’s movements precisely, as well as maintain communication with the workers on the ground.
The yearly median salary of a crane operator is $65,270, which translates to about $31.38 an hour. To become a crane operator, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED, take the appropriate courses in trade school, go through general operator training, and then enroll in an apprenticeship program. Once you’ve done all of that, you’re ready to take the exam to become a certified crane operator.
Warning: Some states might require additional licensing. Make sure to check with your state’s requirements before beginning your training.
4. Pipefitters
Pipefitters are responsible for the installation and repair of pipes that carry liquids or gases. They install these pipes in a variety of settings, such as commercial buildings, factories, and power plants. Pipefitters must be able to read blueprints and follow instructions carefully. They must also be able to use a variety of tools, including saws, wrenches, and welding equipment.
Pipes are used in just about anything in the modern world. From the pipes that carry water to our homes to the pipes that carry natural gas to our stoves, pipefitters make sure that these vital systems are installed correctly and working properly.
It’s hard to find accurate salary data, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics groups pipefitters together with plumbers and steamfitters, claiming they earn a median salary of $59,880 per year.
You will need to get a license to work as a pipefitter. To do this, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program or attend a trade school. You will also need to pass a written exam and a skills test.
5. Industrial Machinery Mechanics and Maintenance Workers
In your daily life, you probably take for granted a lot of the machines that make your life easier. But someone has to keep those machines running, and that’s where industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers come in.
Machinery mechanics and maintenance workers are responsible for the maintenance of a variety of machines, such as pumps, engines, and conveyor belts. They perform a variety of tasks, such as inspecting machines, repairing machine parts, and replacing worn or damaged parts.
An industrial machinery mechanic’s day-to-day life can be quite varied. They may be called on to do anything from inspecting machines to repairing broken parts. They must be able to work independently, as well as in a team setting. They must also be able to follow instructions carefully.
Industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers typically have an associate’s degree or a certification from a trade school.
Maintenance workers must be able to use a variety of tools, including wrenches, screwdrivers, and welding equipment. They must also be able to read blueprints and follow instructions carefully.
The median salary for these workers is $59,380 per year, which translates to about $28.55 an hour.
6. Locomotive Engineers
Locomotive engineers operate locomotives, which are large machines that move trains. They are responsible for the safety of the passengers and crew, as well as the freight that is being transported. Locomotive engineers must be able to follow instructions carefully and maintain communication with the dispatcher.
A locomotive engineer’s day-to-day life revolves around operating a locomotive. They must be able to follow instructions carefully and maintain communication with the dispatcher. Locomotive engineers must also be able to troubleshoot problems that may arise during their shift.
Locomotive engineers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must also complete on-the-job training, which usually lasts between 1 and 3 months. Once completed your training, you’ll have to get a railroad engineering license from the Federal Railroad Administration.
The median salary for locomotive engineers is $72,940 per year. Lower than your typical engineer, but that’s because you’re not really an engineer. You don’t need a bachelor’s degree, but you do need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training.
7. Industrial Designers
Industrial designers create the products that we use every day. They design everything from automobiles to kitchen appliances. Industrial designers must be able to think creatively and come up with new ideas. They must also be able to work within a budget and meet deadlines.
Their impact on our life is subtle but evident at the same time. Most of the things you use every day were designed by an industrial designer.
Industrial designers’ job revolves around designing products. They must be able to think creatively and come up with new ideas. They must also be able to work within a budget and meet deadlines. Industrial designers typically have a bachelor’s degree in industrial design.
The median salary for industrial designers is $77,030 per year. To become one, you’ll need a bachelor degree. Popular ones in this field are in the fine arts, engineering, or architecture. Make sure to attend a program with a strong focus in industrial design — particularly 3D design, modeling, and industrial materials and processes.
Let’s now see how you could get started into the industry. Eventually, you’ll be able to climb the ladder and get to these positions.
Entry Level Jobs in Industrial Machinery to Get Started in the Field
If you’re interested in a career in industrial machinery, there are a few entry-level jobs to get started:
- Machine operator — These workers operate machines that are used in the production of various goods. They must be able to follow instructions carefully and maintain a high level of accuracy. The main difference between them and a machinist is that they don’t typically set up or maintain the machines.
- Production worker — Production workers are responsible for assembling and disassembling products. They must be able to follow instructions carefully and work well in a team setting.
- Assembler — Assemblers put together products or parts for products. They must be able to follow instructions carefully and pay attention to detail.
- Inspector — Inspectors check products for quality and accuracy. They must be able to follow instructions carefully and pay attention to detail.
As you can see, all of the above jobs are basically a simplified version of other jobs we posted about in the previous section. What an inspector does, so does a production manager. But the latter has added skills and responsibilities as well, leading to higher earnings.
These jobs are perfect to get your foot in the door. With some on-the-job experience, you can eventually move up to a higher paying position.
The best way to secure a job in this field is by completing an apprenticeship or internship program. These programs will give you the opportunity to learn from experienced workers and gain hands-on experience. As long as you have a high-school diploma, you’re good to go.
Conclusions
There you have it — the best paying jobs in industrial machinery/components. With the right education and training, you can secure a lucrative career in this field. Just remember to start at the bottom and work your way up.
Companies in this field are always looking for talented and ambitious workers. They gladly offer training to anyone willing to embark on a new career. Be careful though, this field takes a lot of hard work and dedication. But it’s definitely worth it in the end!
And you’ll likely have to start with an entry-level job. Many of these positions require on-the-job experience or an apprenticeship/internship program. However, there is much satisfaction to be had once you’ve gotten into the groove of things. And you’ll see the effects of your work on the world that surrounds it. There’s nothing cooler than to think “I made this” while shopping around.
Also Read: 10 Best Paying Jobs in Capital Goods 2022 (Up To $130K)
