Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders Salary 2025: $35,650 Median, Decline Ahead
Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders earn a median salary of $35,650 per year, or roughly $17 an hour, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The typical pay range runs from $26,560 at the 10th percentile to $47,700 at the 90th, meaning most workers fall somewhere in between. The occupation employs about 3,280 people across the U.S.
How much Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders earn
The national mean annual wage for Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders is $36,280. That works out to an hourly rate of about $17.45. Half of all workers earn between the 25th and 75th percentiles, which range from $29,800 to $42,120.
New York pays the highest average salary at $48,420, followed closely by California at $47,730. Maine is third at $39,850, then Wisconsin at $37,970 and Minnesota at $37,600. On the lower end, Texas reports an average of $26,560.
Pay by state
Top-paying states: New York ($48,420), California ($47,730), Maine ($39,850), Wisconsin ($37,970), Minnesota ($37,600).
Lower-paying states: Wisconsin ($37,970), Minnesota ($37,600). Texas brings up the rear at $26,560, which is below the national 10th percentile.
How to become Shoe Machine Operators and Tender
Most Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders learn on the job, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. No formal postsecondary education is needed, though some vocational schools offer basic machine operation courses. Employers usually provide several weeks of hands-on training covering machine setup, safety procedures, and quality checks.
No state or federal license is required, but some employers may prefer candidates with basic math skills and mechanical aptitude. Advancement can lead to supervisory roles or higher-paying positions in related manufacturing.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level operator/tender positions at shoe manufacturers or repair shops.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically a few weeks).
- Consider vocational coursework in industrial machinery or manufacturing safety.
Job outlook
Employment of Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders is projected to decline 3.7% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 120 jobs. However, roughly 400 openings per year are expected due to workers retiring or leaving the occupation. The decline reflects automation and overseas production reducing domestic demand for shoe machine operators.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Shoe Machine Operator and Tender?
The national median salary is $35,650 per year, with a typical range of $26,560 to $47,700. The mean annual wage is $36,280.
How do I become a Shoe Machine Operator and Tender?
You typically need a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training. No formal certification is required. Employers look for mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
Is there demand for Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders?
Demand is declining. The BLS projects a 3.7% drop in employment from 2024 to 2034, but about 400 openings per year will arise from turnover.
Which states pay the most for this job?
New York ($48,420), California ($47,730), and Maine ($39,850) are the top-paying states. Texas pays the least at $26,560.
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 Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders data.