The best-paying jobs in industrial machinery components include vice president of operations and global director of quality. Due to the specialized knowledge, expertise, and abilities required by their jobs, they earn high. Companies in industrial machinery/components organizations depend on these roles to succeed.
The industrial machinery/components industry has been influential for 200 years now. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts an industry’s growth rate of 19% for the next 10 years. It will also produce 8,352 new job openings by 2028.
What Do Industrial Machinery/Components Jobs Pay?
The average annual salary in industrial machinery/components is $37,170. However, there’s a wide range of careers with varying pay available in the industrial machinery/components industry.
For example, an experienced senior engineer in a large company can earn up to $105,153 annually in industrial machinery and components. On the other hand, an entry-level welder earns approximately $50,000 per year.
15 Highest Paying Industrial Machinery/Components Jobs with Good Salaries
The highest-paying jobs in the Industrial Machinery/Components industry differ by company, roles and responsibilities, and educational qualifications.
Here are the 15 highest-paying jobs in the industrial machinery/components sector
The vice president of operations oversees the day-to-day operations of an industry’s manufacturing and production processes. They ensure quality standards are met in production goals, quality, and customer satisfaction, earning them a high salary. These responsibilities make the vice president of operations role the best-paying job in industrial machinery/components.
Vice presidents of operations are the top-level members of the industry. They represent the company in making decisions and offering strategic plans that are profitable to the company. This is why they earn the best salaries.
To get this role, you must have extensive knowledge of the principles of the manufacturing process, communication, supervisory, and leadership skills. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. A minimum of five years of strong operational experience is also relevant.
The job outlook for their role is positive with a 5% growth ratefrom 2020 to 2030. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts over 10,000 job openings for this position in the next ten years.
2. Global Director of Quality
Average Annual Salary: $251,000
The global director of quality ensures that the industry’s products meet quality standards. They develop and implement quality control processes, test products, and work with other departments to identify areas for improvement.
Global directors of quality earn the best salaries because they ensure the company’s products maintain the same quality throughout all factories. Skills for this role include strong leadership, communication, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
The educational requirement for this role is a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for global directors of quality will decline by 4% from 2020 to 2030. As of March 2023, there are 56,300 jobs available in this role.
3. Director of Global Sales
Average Annual Salary: $242,000
The director of global sales develops and implements sales strategies to achieve revenue targets, earning them a high salary. They also manage sales teams, build relationships with customers, and identify new business opportunities. This role earns high because they influence revenue growth, manage global sales teams, and develops sales strategies for the company.
Directors of global sales must have analytical abilities, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the industrial machinery/components industry.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration or any related field. Many others prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration or engineering.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job outlook to have a 5% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. The BLS states there are 208,800 vacant jobs in the industrial machinery/components section as of March 2023.
4. Director of Engineering.
Average Annual Salary: $232,000
The director of engineering leads the engineering team and develops, and implements new strategies. This makes the role one of the best-paying jobs in industrial machinery/components. They also manage projects, ensure compliance with regulations and standards, and identify new technologies to improve their product.
Directors of engineering possess analytical, maths, problem-solving, project planning, and quality management abilities.
Employers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in any engineering or related field. The job outlook for this role is positive with a 3% growth rate from 2020-2030. There are 80,000 job openings for this role in the US.
5. Director of Supply Chain
Average Annual Salary: $226,000
A director of a supply chain manages the supply chain operations by managing the distribution process and material procurement. They are also responsible for the entire supply chain, which includes procurement and logistics.
Directors of the supply chain earn high because they manage the company’s supply chain operations and reduce costs. They also ensure the timely delivery of goods and services to customers.
To get this role, you must have excellent decision-making abilities to solve problems quickly with real-time data. An in-depth knowledge of the industrial/machinery components industry.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or business management for this role. The job outlook for the director of supply is positive with an 8% growth from 2021 to 2031. This role will produce many jobs in the coming years.
6. Director of Marketing
Average Annual Salary: $222,000
The director of marketing develops and implements marketing strategies, and builds relationships with customers. They also manage marketing teams, identify new business opportunities, and oversee branding and image.
Directors of marketing possess leadership, strategic thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, marketing, and interpersonal skills.
Employees require a bachelor’s degree in business management or any related field. BLS forecasts a 10%growth rate from 2020 to 2030. Presently, there are 20,000 job openings for this role in the United States.
7. Director of Business Development
Average Annual Salary: $218,000
Directors of business development manage sales and business development activities for a designated territory and product line. They initiate, evaluate, and lead successful business growth opportunities. Additionally, help industries to grow better brand recognition and reach their financial goals.
A director of business development earns a high salary because they identify new opportunities and build strategic partnerships. Additionally, they develop and implement growth strategies to increase revenue and expand the company’s market share.
Director of business development possesses technical, account development, strategic planning, margin, and sales forecast analysis abilities.
You need a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field for this role. Many employers require an MBA for a high-level position. According to BLS, the job outlook is positive with a 5% growth rate from 2019 to 2029. This role will produce many jobs in the next decade.
8. Global Strategic Marketing Manager
Average Annual Salary: $216,000
The global strategic marketing manager in industrial machinery/components develops and implements global marketing strategies. They also conduct market research, analyze customer feedback, and fix pricing, earning them one of the highest salaries in industrial machinery/components.
Global strategic managers map out product and marketing strategies and also know everything in raw-materials sourcing.
You must have a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field and 10 years of experience in global marketing or any other relevant area. This role will grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030. This job will produce 8,000 jobs per year for the next decade.
9. Director of Operations
Average Annual Salary: $205,000
The director of operations oversees effective operating procedures across the industrial machinery/components companies. They manage daily activities concerning production and maintain the efficiency of the production process.
Directors of operations possess skills that include strong leadership, strategic thinking, organizational, decision-making, delegation, and communication skills.
Many employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration or management. BLS predicts a job growth outlook of 10% from 2020 to 2030. This role will produce many jobs due to the high demand for industrial machinery.
Senior project managers lead teams to deliver projects across one or more business units. They manage resources, schedules, and financials, and adhere to stage gate quality. Additionally, they employ the SDLC control guidelines throughout the systems development cycle. These responsibilities make the senior product manager role one of the best-paying jobs in industrial machinery/components.
Senior product managers earn high salaries because they drive the development and launch of successful products which brings in revenue for the company.
A senior project manager possesses knowledge of software development approaches such as Agile or Waterfall. They also have experience with JIRA and risk management techniques.
Employers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering or a related field for senior project manager positions. The BLS predicts a job growth outlook of 3% from 2020 to 2030. There are 200,000 job openings for this role globally.
11. Senior Solutions Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $195,000
A senior solutions consultant in industrial machinery/components provides technical expertise and solutions to customers. They also identify customer needs, develop proposals, and deliver presentations.
Senior solutions consultants earn high salaries because they provide expert advice and direction to customers on complex business challenges. They also develop innovative solutions for companies.
They possess negotiation, presentation, technical, interpersonal, data analysis, and communication skills.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or any other related field. This role is expected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030. Currently, there are 5,000 job openings for this role in the United States.
12. General Manager
Average Annual Salary: $190,000
The general managers in industrial machinery/oversee the operations of a company and develop strategies to achieve their goals. They also manage resources, coordinate activities, and make decisions that make the company successful, earning them a high salary.
To be an excellent general manager, you need good leadership, communication, delegation, problem-solving, decision-making, and time management skills.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or business management for this role. According to BLS, the job growth outlook is 1% from 2020 to 2030. There are 170,000 job openings available for this role.
13. Senior Sales Manager
Average Annual Salary: $178,000
Senior sales managers manage staff, expand the customer base, recruit new customers, and select suitable employees for each branch. They teach workers on what the organization needs before giving them projects to help achieve sales target.
To be a senior sales manager, you must know the industrial/machinery components industry. Other necessary skills include good time-management habits, communication, leadership, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration or marketing. BLS predicts a growth outlook of 5% from 2019 to 2029. This job will produce over 500,000 jobs in the next 10 years due to the high demand for sales experts.
14. Quality Manager
Average Annual Salary: $120,000
A quality manager control all products to meet quality standards, and create and employ quality control procedures. They manage quality assurance programs and identify areas for improvement.
Quality managers earn high because they ensure that products and services meet the best standards of quality and safety. Additionally, they manage quality control teams and utilize quality assurance programs to modify efficiency and reduce waste.
Skills for this role include knowledge of quality assurance, compliance, technical statistics, lean manufacturing, ISO 9001, and process validation techniques.
Employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering for this job. Years of experience in the industry are also relevant.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 1% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. This role will produce many jobs due to the high demand for quality products.
The buyer/procurement manager in industrial machinery/components evaluates suppliers, negotiates contracts, and manages the procurement process. They also ensure that the company obtains high-quality goods at the lowest price. These responsibilities make the buyer/procurement manager role one of the best-paying jobs in industrial machinery/components.
Buyer/procurement managers possess supply chain management, project management, cost analysis, strategic sourcing, evaluation, and vendor performance. Other relevant skills are supplier contract negotiation, inventory management, KPI tracking, and ISO compliance.
The educational qualification for this role is a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. Many employers prefer individuals with a master’s degree in supply chain management.
Beroe Inc. forecasts a 7% job outlook growth rate for buyer/procurement managers from 2020-2025. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 47,400 job openings for this position.
Highest Paying Entry-Level Industrial Machinery/Components Jobs with Good Salaries
Many entry-level jobs offer good salaries annually in the industrial machinery/components industry. These positions require technical knowledge and skills and provide a platform to grow an excellent career.
Process technicians ensure the overall quality of products in an industry, earning them one of the highest salaries in industrial machinery/components. They do testing, monitor quality, create documentation, and work with external partners.
A process technician possesses mathematics, computers, communication, critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and time management skills.
Employers require a minimum post-secondary school certificate or a high school diploma. The job outlook growth rate for process technicians is 10% from 2020 to 2030. This role will produce many jobs in the next few years.
2. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer
Average Annual Salary: $60,160
CNC Programmers program and operate computer numerical control machines to produce precision parts and components. They also ensure the basic upkeep and corrections to programs in the industrial machinery/components.
To be a CNC programmer, you need the ability to read blueprints and technical drawings, mechanical aptitude, and mathematical skills.
Employers require a high school diploma and training program like Nascar Technical CNC machining technology. The job outlook has a growth forecast of 4% from 2021 to 2031. This job will produce 41,000 employees every year.
3. Production Worker
Average Annual Salary: $60,000
A production worker handles production equipment, assembles and inspects machinery parts, and puts raw materials into manufacturing machines. They also assemble packaged finished products and maintain a clean work environment. These responsibilities make production worker one of the highest-paying entry-level jobs in industrial machinery/components.
Production workers possess the ability to stand and lift packages for long hours. They also need concentration, manual dexterity, reliability, and teamwork skills.
Employers require a high school diploma or GED certificate for this role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the production workers’ jobs will decline by 4% from 2020 to 2030 due to automation. This job will not produce much employment in the coming years.
4. Industrial Mechanic
Average Annual Salary:$52,371
Industrial Mechanics install, maintain, and repair machinery and equipment used in manufacturing products. They also troubleshoot problems with machines and perform preventative maintenance for effective operations.
To be an industrial mechanic, you must possess the ability to read technical manuals and know electrical systems.
Employers require a high school diploma or post-secondary education in mechanical or electrical engineering technology.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a growth rate of 13% from 2020 to 2030 for this role. There are over 480,000 job openings for industrial mechanics.
A welder uses hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to join, repair, or cut metal parts and products according to industry specifications. They also supervise the welding process and adjust heat as necessary, making the welder position one of the best-paying entry-level roles.
Welders possess knowledge of welding machinery and electrical equipment, mechanical, attention to detail, project management, and design skills.
Employers require a high school diploma for this role. Relevant courses in mechanical drawing and blueprint reading are also necessary.
The job outlook for welders is positive with a growth rate of 2% from 2021 to 2031. BLS predicts about 47,600 openings for this role annually for the next 10 years.
How to Apply for a High Paying Job in Industrial Machinery/Components?
Getting a job in industrial machinery/components can be challenging. However, there are a few steps that can increase your chances of success.
Here are 6 actionable steps to apply for a high-paying job in industrial machinery/components.
1. Gain relevant education
Every role in the industrial machinery/components industry has an educational requirement. Research the job you want and know the requirements. Pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Focus on mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering.
2. Acquire relevant skills
The industrial machinery/components industry needs individuals who are skilled in some aspects. Acquire relevant skills like project management, problem-solving, and knowledge of industry-specific software and machinery. It will make your applications swift and successful.
3. Obtain experience
Most employers in this sector prefer candidates who have practical experience in any field. You can get experience through internships or entry-level positions in the industry.
4. Obtain relevant certifications
Certifications increase your chances of getting hired in the already competitive industry. There are many pieces of training you can register for to acquire certificates.
7 certifications and training you need to get a high-paying job in the industrial machinery/components industry
Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP)
Certified Maintenance Manager (CMM)
Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
Control Systems Engineer (CSE)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Production Technician (CPT)
5. Stay up-to-date with industry trends
You must stay updated on industry trends to get a job in the industrial machinery/components industry. Attend corporate events, join professional organizations, and follow up on social media to get acquainted with new developments in the field.
6. Apply for high-paying jobs in industrial machinery/components
Ensure you read the job specifications and tailor your CV/resume to fit the vacant position. Apply for any best-paying job of your choice. Cross-check your entries and make sure they are correct before you send in your application.
Where to Find the Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components?
The industrial machinery/component industry offers numerous high-paying job opportunities for employees at all levels. There are several places you can find a job in this sector.
Here are 5 excellent platforms to find the best-paying jobs in industrial machinery components
1. MachineDesignJobs
MachineDesignJobs is a job listing platform that shares engineering and design jobs related to industrial machinery/components. This website posts job openings from manufacturing and engineering firms. They also have a section that guides job seekers on creating professional profiles, uploading resumes, and applying for jobs.
2. iHireManufacturing
iHireManufacturing is a platform that posts only jobs in the manufacturing industry. The site has lots of tools for job seekers. They also provide job search tools, career advice, and news on industry trends.
3. MachineTools.com
MachineTools.com is a database of machine tool companies in the United States for the industrial machinery/components sector. The platform provides access to detailed company profiles, contact information, industry classifications, and product offerings. It is for job seekers who want employment in particular companies in their job search. You can find high-paying positions there. Filter your search with your location and job title.
If you have a network of people who work in the industry or know who does, reach out to them. They can help you find a job in the industrial machinery/components industry. Reach out to ex-colleagues, classmates, and family members to tell them you are looking for new opportunities. They might refer you to vacancies or introduce you to hiring managers they know.
5. Consider working for a consulting firm
Many consulting firms specialize in the industrial machinery/components industry. They work with top manufacturers and offer high-paying positions in their establishments. Consulting firms like McKinsey & Company, Accenture, and Deloitte offer high-paying jobs in this sector.
What are the Top-Level Skills to Get a High-Paying Job in Industrial Machinery/Components?
There are many jobs available in industrial machinery/components but the best-paying jobs require a wide range of abilities. There are several top-level specialized skills individuals should acquire to get a high-paying job in this sector.
7 top-level skills to land a high-paying job in the industrial machinery/components sector
1. Project management skills
Many employers want individuals who can manage projects effectively, schedule, budget, and allocate resources. Project management is an essential part of the industry. Employees who are good at it earn high salaries.
2. Troubleshooting and maintenance skills
Experts in troubleshooting and maintenance of industrial machinery/components are highly valued. People with this skill earn high because they ensure that machines function properly and have a long life span.
3. Electrical and electronic systems
Individuals who know electrical and electronic systems like circuits, sensors, and microcontrollers are valuable. This skill is necessary for industrial machinery/components.
4. Machining and fabrication
Machining and fabrication experts get a high paycheck in the industrial machinery/components industry. They use this skill for welding, milling, and turning products. It makes manufacturing easy and faster.
Many industrial machinery/components employees use computer-aided design software to create and edit technical drawings. Individuals who have excellent skills in SolidWorks or AutoCAD are paid well.
6. Attention to detail
Attention to detail is one underrated skill influencing payment in the Industrial machinery/component sector. Employees need this ability to pay close attention and ensure that products have the best quality standards.
7. Communication skills
Clear communication is necessary for working with teammates, colleagues, and clients. You need good communication skills to be successful in this career. Expert communicators present ideas and proposals to management and stakeholders.
Top 10 Companies with the Highest-Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components
Caterpillar Inc.
Siemens NG.
Parker-Hannifin Corporation
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Ingersoll Rand Inc.
Eaton Corporation
Danaher Corporation
Applied Materials, Inc.
Kennametal Inc.
Flowserve Corporation
Name of Company
Size
Highest paying job
Annual Salary
Caterpillar Inc.
106,000
Vice President of Operations
$446,101
Siemens NG
303,000
Director of Global Operations
$313,004
Flowserve Corporation
17,000
Director of Global Sales
$242,000
Applied Materials, Inc.
26,000
Director of Engineering
$232,000
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
45,000
Director of Supply Chain Management
$226,000
Parker-Hannifin Corporation
58,000
Director of Engineering
$223,000
Danaher Corporation
69,000
Director of Marketing
$222,000
Eaton Corporation
102,000
Director of Engineering
$220,000
Ingersoll Rand Inc.
45,000
Director of Engineering
$210,000
Kennametal Inc.
10,000
Director of Operations
$206,000
Which industrial machinery/components company pays the highest salary?
Caterpillar Inc. pays the highest salaries to employees. The vice president of operations role earns an average salary of $446,101.
What are the Factors Influencing an Employee’s Salary in the Industrial Machinery/Components Industry?
Many factors influence workers’ salaries in the industrial machinery/components industry. Understanding the factors affecting salaries in this industry is important for job seekers and employees looking for increments.
Here are 5 factors that influence an employee’s salary in the industrial machinery/components industry.
1. Performance and productivity
Individuals who are more productive and have high-performing results get rewards of higher salaries and bonuses. They have more outcomes by meeting production targets, reaching quality standards, and showing problem-solving skills.
2. Education and experience
Employees who have higher educational qualifications earn high salaries. Having a relevant degree or certification is relevant to earning a higher salary.
3. Job title and responsibilities
Job titles and levels of responsibilities also play a huge role in an employee’s salary. For example, an engineer or manager in the industrial machinery/components industry earns more than a technician or assembler. This is because their job descriptions vary.
4. Geographic location
The cost of living and average salaries vary widely depending on the geographic location. Employees in urban areas or areas with high demand for their skills tend to earn higher salaries. Others in rural locations might earn lesser than their peers in urban areas.
5. Company size and industry
The size and type of company affect an employee’s salary. Larger companies have more resources that enable them to offer higher salaries and pay more than others. Smaller companies do not have these resources and pay lower than large companies.
Conclusion: Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components
The industrial machinery/components industry provides many well-paying opportunities for individuals with excellent qualifications, skills, and experience. Many employment opportunities are also available to those without formal education. By improving your abilities and keeping up with current business trends, you will prepare yourself for long-term achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Paying Jobs in Industrial Machinery/Components
What is the highest paying job in industrial machinery/components?
The highest-paying jobs in industrial machinery/components include the vice president of operations, director of global operations, director of engineering, and director of global sales. However, there are many other best-paying jobs in the industrial machinery/components industry.
