Production Manager Salary Guide

A Production Manager oversees manufacturing or production processes to ensure products are produced efficiently, on time, within budget, and to quality standards. Responsibilities include planning production schedules, managing staff and resources, maintaining safety and compliance, implementing process improvements, and coordinating with supply chain, engineering, and quality teams.

What is the average Production Manager salary?

Entry Level

$55,000 - $75,000

Mid Level

$75,000 - $110,000

Senior Level

$110,000 - $160,000+

How does Production Manager salary grow with experience?

$50,000 - $65,000
0-2
$65,000 - $90,000
3-5
$90,000 - $125,000
6-10
$110,000 - $160,000++
10+
Base (min)
Top of range (max)
Max: $160k

Production Manager salary by location

San Francisco Bay Area, CA$100,000 - $165,000
New York City, NY$95,000 - $155,000
Los Angeles, CA$85,000 - $140,000
Chicago, IL$80,000 - $130,000
Austin, TX$80,000 - $125,000
Base (min)
Top of range (max)

What factors affect a Production Manager's salary?

  • Industry and product complexity (e.g., aerospace, pharmaceuticals, electronics pay premium)
  • Geographic location and local labor market demand
  • Technical skills and certifications (Six Sigma, Lean, ERP systems, automation)
  • Scope of responsibility (team size, multiple sites, P&L accountability)
  • Company size and financial health

Frequently Asked Questions About Production Manager Salaries

What is the average salary for a Production Manager?

Average salaries vary by experience: entry-level about $55k–$75k, mid-level $75k–$110k, and senior-level $110k–$160k per year in the U.S.

How does location affect Production Manager pay?

Location matters: tech and manufacturing hubs like San Francisco and New York typically pay 15–40% more than the national average due to higher cost of living and demand.

What skills increase a Production Manager's salary?

Key pay boosters include lean manufacturing, Six Sigma/Kaizen certification, ERP expertise (SAP/Oracle), automation and robotics experience, and proven cost-reduction results.

How should I negotiate a Production Manager salary?

Be prepared with market data, quantify your past impact (throughput, cost savings, quality improvements), highlight certifications, and target a range 10–15% above your minimum acceptable salary.

Earn what you're worth as a Production Manager

A strong resume gets you to the negotiation table. Build one tailored to your role and level.

Build Your Resume Now

Explore Related Salary Guides

See how salaries compare across similar roles in the same field.