Helpers—Production Workers Salary 2025: $39,070 Median, -8.9% Job Decline
The median salary for Helpers—Production Workers is $39,070 per year, or about $19 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's the midpoint: half earn less, half earn more. The typical range runs from $31,140 at the 10th percentile to $53,410 at the 90th. With 165,700 jobs nationwide, this occupation offers entry-level opportunities in manufacturing, but the outlook is shrinking.
How much Helpers—Production Workers earn
The national median wage for Helpers—Production Workers is $39,070, with a mean annual wage of $41,120. Hourly, that works out to roughly $19.80 at the mean. Pay varies widely by experience, location, and industry. The lowest-earning 10 percent take home less than $31,140, while the top 10 percent exceed $53,410.
- Median annual: $39,070
- Mean annual: $41,120
- Hourly mean: $19.77
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The top-paying states for Helpers—Production Workers are North Dakota ($46,170), Montana ($46,110), Iowa ($45,560), Colorado ($45,550), and Washington ($45,450). At the lower end, New Mexico pays $35,650, Arkansas $35,540, and Mississippi $33,880. That's a gap of more than $12,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Helpers—Production Worker
This is typically an entry-level job. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. Some workers start without any formal certification, though having skills in basic math, reading, and mechanical aptitude helps. For certain industries—like food manufacturing or metal fabrication—a short safety or forklift certification may be required. The key is physical stamina and a willingness to learn repetitive tasks.
- High school diploma or GED
- On-the-job training (usually a few weeks)
- Optional: OSHA safety training, forklift certification
- No prior experience necessary for many openings
Job outlook
Employment is expected to decline 8.9% from 2024 to 2034, a loss attributed to automation and increased productivity in manufacturing. Despite the drop, about 23,600 openings per year are projected, largely due to workers leaving the occupation or retiring. So while the overall trend is negative, replacement needs still create opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Helpers—Production Worker in 2025?
The median annual salary is $39,070, with a typical range of $31,140 to $53,410.
How do I become a Helpers—Production Worker?
You typically need a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training. Some employers may require basic safety certifications.
Is Helpers—Production Worker a growing job?
The occupation is projected to decline 8.9% from 2024 to 2034, but still has about 23,600 openings each year due to turnover.
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 Helpers--Production Workers data.