Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders Salary Guide 2025: $43,530 Median
Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders earn a national median salary of $43,530 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest OEWS data (May 2023). The mean hourly wage works out to about $21. Most workers earn between $33,790 (10th percentile) and $58,570 (90th percentile). With 14,760 jobs nationwide and a projected growth rate of 3.6% over the next decade, this occupation offers stable employment in manufacturing and industrial settings.
How much Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders earn
The median annual wage for Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders is $43,530. The bottom 10% earn about $33,790 or less, while the top 10% earn $58,570 or more. The mean hourly wage is $21.44. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey and represent national estimates as of May 2023.
- Median annual salary: $43,530
- 10th percentile: $33,790
- 90th percentile: $58,570
- Mean hourly wage: $21.44
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot for this occupation. The highest-paying state is Maine, with an average annual wage of $64,610. Other top-paying states include Wisconsin ($54,290), Oregon ($49,130), North Dakota ($48,240), and Pennsylvania ($48,000). On the lower end, workers in Alabama earn about $35,090, Mississippi $34,280, and Idaho $33,660. Note that these are state-level averages; local cost of living and industry mix can further affect take-home pay.
How to become Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tender
This occupation typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Most training happens on the job – you learn to operate washers, pickling tanks, and cleaning equipment under supervision. No formal certification is required, though some employers may prefer candidates with basic mechanical skills or previous manufacturing experience. Here's a typical path:
- 1. Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
- 2. Apply for entry-level positions at metal fabrication plants, electroplating companies, or industrial laundries.
- 3. Complete on-the-job training (usually a few weeks to a few months) learning safety procedures, equipment operation, and chemical handling.
- 4. Consider voluntary certifications (e.g., through the Metal Finishing Suppliers Association) to boost advancement opportunities.
Job outlook
Employment of Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders is projected to grow 3.6% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,600 job openings per year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. The BLS estimates total employment in 2034 at around 15,300, up from 14,760 in 2024. Opportunities will be best in states with strong manufacturing sectors.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operator and Tender do?
They operate or tend machines that clean, wash, or pickle metal parts or other items. Tasks include loading items, adding cleaning solutions, monitoring equipment, and inspecting parts for cleanliness. They work in factories, metal finishing shops, and industrial laundries.
Do you need a degree for this job?
No. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Most skills are learned through on-the-job training lasting a few weeks to months.
Which state pays the most for this occupation?
Maine is the highest-paying state, with an average annual wage of $64,610. Other top states include Wisconsin ($54,290) and Oregon ($49,130).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders data.