Industrial Machinery Mechanics: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 421,940 industrial machinery mechanics, and they earn a median of $63,760/year. The range runs from $45K to $93K. Alaska pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level industrial machinery mechanics start around $45K. The gap between that and the median ($64K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $93K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $87K | 660 |
| District of Columbia | $85K | 190 |
| Hawaii | $80K | 760 |
| Nevada | $75K | 2,460 |
| Washington | $75K | 10,300 |
| Wyoming | $75K | 2,290 |
| California | $74K | 25,790 |
| Connecticut | $74K | 2,980 |
| New Jersey | $73K | 9,110 |
| Oregon | $71K | 6,490 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a industrial machinery mechanics make?▼
The median industrial machinery mechanics salary in the United States is $63,760 per year ($31/hour). Entry-level positions start around $45,090, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,730.
What education do you need to become a industrial machinery mechanics?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for industrial machinery mechanics?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for industrial machinery mechanics.
What are the highest paying states for industrial machinery mechanics?▼
The highest paying states for industrial machinery mechanics are Alaska ($86,590), District of Columbia ($85,380), Hawaii ($80,180), Nevada ($75,490), Washington ($75,220). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.