Conveyor Operators and Tenders Salary Guide 2025: Median $42,420, Decline Ahead
Conveyor Operators and Tenders earn a median salary of $42,420 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $45,080, roughly $20 per hour. Most workers in this occupation fall between $36,180 (10th percentile) and $59,470 (90th percentile). These figures come from the latest BLS OEWS data.
The job is physically active and often involves monitoring conveyor systems, sorting materials, and performing basic maintenance. It's a role that typically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training. But before you start applying, it's worth understanding the pay picture, the steps to qualify, and what the next decade holds for this occupation.
How much Conveyor Operators and Tenders earn
The national median salary for Conveyor Operators and Tenders is $42,420. That means half of workers earn more, half earn less. The mean wage is $45,080, or about $21.67 per hour. Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile earn around $36,180, while experienced workers at the 90th percentile can make up to $59,470.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot for pay. West Virginia pays the most, with an average of $62,830. Iowa ($56,900), Maryland ($56,120), Alabama ($55,970), and Louisiana ($54,590) also rank high. On the lower end, South Carolina averages $38,020, Arkansas $36,940, and Oklahoma $36,200.
How to become Conveyor Operators and Tender
This occupation typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. No college degree is needed. Most workers learn through short-term on-the-job training lasting a few weeks to a few months. Employers look for reliability, basic math skills, and the ability to stand for long periods. Some positions may require a forklift certification or a commercial driver's license (CDL) if material handling is involved. No state license is required specifically for conveyor operation.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level conveyor operator jobs; many are in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution centers.
- Complete employer-provided safety and equipment training.
- Consider earning a forklift certification (e.g., OSHA) to broaden your skills.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Conveyor Operators and Tenders will decline by 3.4% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 780 jobs. However, there will still be roughly 2,600 openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the occupation. Automation of material handling systems is the main reason for the decline. Job seekers should focus on warehouses and manufacturing plants that rely on large-scale conveyor systems.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Conveyor Operator and Tender in 2025?
According to the BLS, the national median salary is $42,420 per year. The typical range is $36,180 to $59,470.
How do I become a Conveyor Operator and Tender?
You need a high school diploma or equivalent and can expect a few weeks of on-the-job training. No prior experience is generally required.
Is Conveyor Operator and Tender a declining job?
Yes, the BLS projects a 3.4% decline in employment between 2024 and 2034, but about 2,600 job openings per year will still exist.
Which states pay Conveyor Operators and Tenders the most?
The highest-paying states are West Virginia ($62,830), Iowa ($56,900), Maryland ($56,120), Alabama ($55,970), and Louisiana ($54,590).
What is the hourly wage for Conveyor Operators and Tenders?
The mean hourly wage is about $20 per hour, based on the BLS mean annual salary of $45,080.
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 Conveyor Operators and Tenders data.