Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders Salary in San Diego, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA
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In San Diego, CA, the typical Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders earn a median annual salary of $40,680, or $19.56 per hour, which is slightly below the national median for this occupation at $40,900. When compared to the local area's median household income of $102,285, these earnings represent approximately 39.8% of the typical San Diego household's income. This indicates that individuals in this role may contribute significantly less to their household finances than other occupations might within the same region, considering the high cost of living in San Diego.
Entry-level workers in this field tend to earn closer to the lower end of the salary range; for instance, those at the 10th percentile make around $35,820 annually. In contrast, experienced operators and tenders who are more skilled or hold higher positions might earn up to $56,960 per year (90th percentile). The difference in earnings is largely driven by factors such as experience, skill level, and possibly union membership or additional certifications that can enhance an operator's qualifications and efficiency. Additionally, the employment of approximately 2,970 individuals within this occupation suggests a stable demand for these roles, which could be influenced by the local manufacturing sector's strength and the relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30% in San Diego.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in San Diego, CA is $19.56, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $27.52 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders salaries?
The median Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders salary in San Diego, CA is 0.5% below the national median of $40,900. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders in San Diego?
Entry-level Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders (10th percentile) earn around $35,820 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $37,590.