Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers Salary Guide 2025
Coin, vending, and amusement machine servicers and repairers earn a national median salary of $47,450 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage is about $23.90, with the lowest 10% earning $34,320 and the highest 10% making $66,370. These technicians keep arcade games, soda machines, and ticket dispensers running smoothly across the country.
How much Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers earn
The median annual wage for this occupation is $47,450, meaning half earn more and half earn less. The average (mean) salary is $49,770. Pay typically ranges from $34,320 at the 10th percentile to $66,370 at the 90th percentile. Experienced technicians in high-cost areas or specialized roles can exceed $66,000.
Full-time workers often receive overtime for emergency repairs. Entry-level positions start near the $34,320 mark, while those with advanced electronics training or multiple certifications can command top pay.
Pay by state
Location significantly affects earnings. The highest-paying state is Rhode Island, with an average salary of $62,350. New York follows at $60,010, New Jersey at $59,770, Washington at $58,750, and Arizona at $56,450. These states often have higher costs of living and strong union presence or dense amusement/vending markets.
Lower-paying states include Alabama at $40,670, West Virginia at $38,190, and Ohio at $37,950. Technicians in these states may earn 20% less than the national median.
How to become Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairer
Most workers enter the occupation with a high school diploma or equivalent, then learn through on-the-job training. Employers often prefer candidates with basic electronics knowledge or a certificate from a community college or trade school. Some technical programs offer specific coursework in vending and amusement machine repair.
Certification from organizations like the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) can improve job prospects. Apprenticeships are rare but exist through large vending companies. Key skills include mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting, and customer service.
- Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Step 2: Complete a vocational certificate or associate degree in electronics, if possible.
- Step 3: Apply for entry-level technician positions at vending or amusement companies.
- Step 4: Get on-the-job training (usually 1–3 months for basics, up to 1 year for full competency).
- Step 5: Earn optional certifications (e.g., NAMA) to advance.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 2.9% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 770 jobs over the decade. That's worse than the average occupation, mainly due to cashless payments reducing coin mechanisms and consolidation in the vending industry. Still, about 3,500 openings per year are expected as current workers retire or leave the field.
Job opportunities will be best for those willing to relocate or who have multi-machine expertise (e.g., both vending and arcade). Technicians who can handle digital payment systems and IoT-enabled machines will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicer and Repairer do?
They install, repair, and maintain coin-operated machines like vending machines, video games, pinball machines, and ticket dispensers. Work includes fixing jams, replacing parts, calibrating electronics, and collecting revenue.
Do I need a college degree for this career?
No, a high school diploma is typical. Many technicians learn on the job, though a certificate in electronics or a related field can help. An associate degree is not required but may boost starting pay.
Is the demand for vending machine repairers growing?
No, the occupation is shrinking due to cashless payments and industry consolidation. However, about 3,500 new openings arise each year from retirements and turnover.
What is the highest-paying state for this job?
Rhode Island pays the most at $62,350 average annual salary, followed by New York and New Jersey.
Can I make over $60,000 as a repairer?
Yes, the top 10% earn more than $66,000. Experienced technicians in high-paying states like New York or those with specialized skills can reach $60,000+.
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 Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers data.