Best-Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery (With and Without a Degree)

Jun 6

The industrial machinery and components sector keeps the world moving. It powers the factories that build our cars, the lines that package our food, and the systems that produce our energy.

But beyond its impact on the economy, it’s also one of the best-paying industries for people who enjoy working with their hands—or designing the tools that shape the future.

This guide will walk you through the top-paying jobs in the industry. We’ll break them down into two simple groups: jobs that don’t need a degree, and those that typically do. For each, you’ll get real salary ranges, tips on how to get started, and what your career path could look like.

What is the industrial machinery/components industry?

It includes companies that build and maintain the machines behind large-scale production—like automated conveyor systems, power generators, hydraulic presses, and robotic arms. These machines are used across many sectors: automotive, aerospace, packaging, energy, mining, and more.

Whether it’s a CNC machine making precision parts or a massive turbine running a power plant, industrial machinery is at the heart of how things get made.

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Industry Snapshot: Why These Jobs Matter

Industrial machinery careers are growing fast—here’s why:

U.S. manufacturing is back. Many companies are bringing production home, driving up demand for skilled trades and engineers.
Machines are smarter. Automation and robotics are everywhere, and someone has to build, program, and maintain them.
Not enough people. A 2024 study from Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute found the U.S. manufacturing sector may need to fill up to 3.8 million jobs by 2033. Without enough skilled workers, about 1.9 million of those jobs could go unfilled (NAM, 2024).

In short, it’s a good time to get in—and a great time to get paid.

Best-Paying Industrial Machinery/Components Jobs Without a Degree

Some of the highest-paying roles in this industry don’t require a college diploma. What they do require is skill, precision, and a willingness to learn.

Millwright

What do millwrights do?

They install, repair, and maintain heavy industrial machinery—like conveyors, pumps, and turbines.

Millwrights are the industrial world’s mechanics and builders. When a massive press or conveyor needs to be installed, repaired, or dismantled, they’re the ones who make it happen. This job blends physical strength with sharp precision and a deep understanding of machinery alignment and hydraulics.

Salary range: $55,000–$80,000+ per year

How to get started: Most millwrights learn through hands-on apprenticeships or trade school programs. If you want to stand out, getting NIMS certified shows employers you’ve got serious skills.

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

What do Industrial Machinery Mechanics do?

These mechanics keep complex machinery running smoothly in factories, often troubleshooting mechanical failures before they cause shutdowns.

Salary range: $50,000–$78,000 per year
These mechanics keep factory equipment running. They work on hydraulics, gears, and motors—often fixing problems before they shut down production.

Training path: You don’t need college, but you will need training. Many mechanics get started in trade school or as trainees—if you’re good with your hands and a problem-solver, you’ll pick it up fast.

CNC Programmer

What do CNC programmers do?

They write the digital instructions that guide CNC machines, helping turn blueprints into perfectly cut parts.

Salary range: $65,000–$90,000+ per year
These pros write the code that tells CNC machines exactly what to do. It’s part math, part machining, and part puzzle-solving.

What you need: Most CNC programmers work their way up from operator roles. You’ll need to know CAD/CAM software, have a solid machining background, and love detail—it’s precision work.

Maintenance Technician (Industrial)

What do industrial maintenance techs do?

They diagnose and repair machinery breakdowns on the factory floor—keeping production lines moving.

Salary range: $50,000–$75,000 per year
These techs are the unsung heroes of the factory floor. From fixing jammed conveyors to rewiring motors, they diagnose and solve problems fast—often under pressure—to keep production lines moving and downtime low.

Helpful certifications: Look into OSHA 10 or 30 for safety, and consider basic PLC or electrical systems training if you want to move up. Some companies will train you on the job if you’re reliable and curious.

Fabricator/Welder

What do Welders do?

They cut, shape, and join metal to build the parts and frames that make up industrial machines and equipment.

Salary range: $45,000–$70,000 per year
These are the builders of the industrial world. Fabricators cut and shape metal, while welders fuse it into frames, supports, and machine parts that hold up under pressure. Skilled welders are in demand everywhere from equipment manufacturers to shipyards.

Get started: Welding school + AWS certification for better pay.

Assembler (Mechanical or Electromechanical)

What do assemblers do?

They put together machine components—from wiring circuits to building control panels.

Salary range: $40,000–$55,000 per year
Assemblers build the inner workings of machines, from motors to control panels. The job requires patience, precision, and good hand-eye coordination.

Start here: High school diploma + company-led training or trade courses.

Machine Operator

What do machine operators do?

They set up and run machinery used in manufacturing—ensuring each part is made correctly and efficiently.

Salary range: $38,000–$52,000 per year
Machine operators are where many industrial careers begin. They load materials, monitor machines, and ensure finished parts meet spec. It’s a hands-on role that builds the foundation for moving up to technician or lead positions.

Career tip: Strong performers often move into lead or technician roles.

Best-Paying Industrial Machinery/Components Jobs With a Degree

Got a degree in engineering or operations? These jobs come with more responsibility—and higher pay.

Mechanical Engineer

What do mechanical engineers do?

They design, develop, and test machines like gearboxes, engines, and conveyor systems for industrial use.

Salary range: $75,000–$110,000 per year
Mechanical engineers don’t just sketch designs—they bring ideas to life. Whether it’s developing a conveyor system that saves hours of labor or refining a motor for greater efficiency, they’re the ones making machines smarter and stronger. If you enjoy solving technical problems and seeing your ideas in motion, this path delivers.

How to get there: A mechanical engineering degree is your launch pad. Hands-on internships, co-ops, or working with real product teams make your resume stand out.

Manufacturing Manager

What do manufacturing managers do?

They oversee daily production operations—managing staff, schedules, and output goals in machinery-focused facilities. Salary range: $80,000–$115,000 per year
Manufacturing managers keep the production floor humming. They’re responsible for hitting quotas, solving bottlenecks, and making sure the team stays safe and productive. It’s a hands-on leadership role that calls for sharp organization and strong people skills.

How to grow into it: Most managers start as production leads or supervisors and learn the ropes on the floor. A background in operations or industrial engineering makes your climb quicker.

Electrical Engineer

What do electrical engineers do?

They design and maintain the electrical systems and controls that power industrial machines.

Salary range: $80,000–$120,000 per year
These engineers power the heart of every modern machine. From designing control panels to integrating sensor networks, electrical engineers keep factories running efficiently—and safely.

How to break in: Start with a degree in electrical or electronics engineering. Internships or hands-on projects in controls or automation will help you land your first job faster.

Industrial Engineer

What do industrial engineers do?

They analyze workflows, cut waste, and optimize production processes for efficiency.

Salary range: $78,000–$105,000 per year
Industrial engineers are the efficiency experts of the plant. They study workflows, cut down on waste, and redesign systems to save time and money. If you enjoy solving complex problems with data, this job hits the mark.

What sets you up for success: A degree in industrial engineering is a great start. Add Lean, Six Sigma, or value stream mapping experience, and you’ll be a go-to person for improving production systems.

Quality Engineer

What do quality engineers do?

They ensure every part or machine meets quality standards through testing and process improvement.

Salary range: $70,000–$100,000 per year
Quality engineers are the gatekeepers of consistency. They design tests, analyze failures, and constantly ask, “How can we make this better?” If you’ve got a sharp eye and enjoy working with data and systems, this role puts you at the intersection of production and precision.

To stand out: Certification in ASQ CQE or ISO 9001 gives you an edge—especially when working with regulated industries or large-scale machinery production.

Quality Control Manager

What do quality control managers do?

They lead teams that inspect and test machinery or components, making sure every item meets strict specs.

Salary range: $80,000–$110,000 per year
Quality control managers are responsible for keeping mistakes off the production line. They lead teams of inspectors, run audits, and work closely with engineers to make sure the final product matches specifications. If you’re detail-oriented and confident leading others, this role blends leadership with technical oversight.

What helps you succeed: You’ll want to be comfortable leading people, confident in solving issues as they come up, and sharp enough to keep clean records and reports that others can rely on.

Where to Find These Jobs

You can find high-paying roles in industrial machinery and components through:

Company websites: Many manufacturers post jobs directly.
Job boards: Try searching on Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or CareerBuilder using terms like “CNC operator,” “millwright,” or “industrial maintenance.”
Apprenticeship programs: Look for state or union-based programs near you.
Staffing firms like Timpl: We specialize in placing skilled tradespeople in roles that match their goals and experience. Explore current openings here.

Real-world tip: Job titles can vary by company, so don’t limit your search. Try entering tools, equipment, or systems you’ve worked with—like “hydraulics,” “Siemens PLC,” or “CNC lathe.” It can uncover jobs that match your actual skills, even if the title looks different.

FAQs

What’s the highest-paying job in industrial machinery/components?
Plant managers and senior engineers can make $120K or more, especially in high-output or unionized facilities.

Can I make six figures without a degree?
Yes—with the right experience and certifications. CNC programmers, millwrights, and shift leaders often do.

Which states pay the most?
According to BLS data, California, Michigan, Texas, and Ohio are among the top-paying states for industrial roles.

How long does it take to get certified?
Some certifications take just a few weeks. Others, like a full machinist program, can take 1–2 years.

Ready to start? Look into a certification. Apply to an entry-level job. Or reach out to someone in the industry who’s already doing the work you admire.

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