Career Paths in Advanced Manufacturing
Manufacturing creates the products people need and want, from cars to clothing. Manufacturing represents 12.6 percent of total private sector employment in Missouri, and it has steadily increased in recent years.
Wages in Manufacturing averaged $74,441 in 2023, higher than the $62,563 state average for private industries. Manufacturing encourages creativity and analytical thinking, with an opportunity for a meaningful and rewarding career with good pay and advancement in the areas of Production, Business Operations, and Engineering and Maintenance.
A Career Path is a group of occupations within a career field. The pathways use industry-recognized credentials and are examples of how additional training or education can provide advancement opportunities. Learn how you can start and get ahead in Advanced Manufacturing.

NOW
Require a High School Diploma and/or Short-term on-the-job training
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Helpers-Production Worker: $39,470 average
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Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, & Repair Workers: $43,080
NEXT
Require Certificate, Credential, Associate Degree
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Machine Operators: $30K-65K
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First-Line Supervisors: $67,880
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CNC Programmers: $63,910
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Industrial Machinery Mechanics: $58,880
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Industrial Engineering Techs: $66,310
LATER
Require Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Degree
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Industrial Production Managers: $117,000
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Mechanical Engineers: $90,980
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Electrical Engineers: $103,690
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Industrial Engineers: $99,270
Want to dive deeper with Missouri's figures about the Advanced Manufacturing Career Pathway? Visit the MERIC website.
* Data produced by Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC). Funding provided by U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration.