Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

In Chicago, IL-IN, Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders in the metal and plastic sectors earn a median annual salary of $46,650, with a corresponding median hourly wage of $22.43. This figure slightly surpasses the national median annual salary for the same occupation, which stands at $45,590. When compared to local household income figures, the typical worker’s earnings represent approximately 52.5% of the area's median household income, which is $88,850. The difference highlights a disparity between individual wages in this field and overall household incomes within the region, reflecting broader economic dynamics and cost-of-living considerations that affect Chicago-area households.

For entry-level workers in this occupation, earnings are generally on the lower end of the spectrum, with salaries around or slightly below the 10th percentile mark at $35,960 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can earn up to the 90th percentile, achieving annual incomes as high as $63,110. This substantial difference is driven by factors such as skill level, years of experience, and proficiency in operating advanced machinery or managing complex production processes. Moreover, additional responsibilities like supervising other operators or optimizing machine performance also contribute to higher wages for seasoned professionals within the field.