Plant managers responding to a recent U.S. lubricant industry salary survey earned an average of $67,428, nearly $10,000 less than those responding to the same survey a year earlier.
According to LubesnGreases Magazine, which conducted the surveys, average pay for year 2001 respondents was consistently lower for plant managers employed by lubricant manufacturers and distributors alike.
The average salary was also lower across most parts of the country, rising only in the south central region, which also had the best mean pay rate, $75,683. The north central region had the lowest level, $59,167.
Plant manager respondents to the 2001 survey were also less optimistic about their financial outlook than the group from 2000, with smaller percentages expecting bonuses, stock or equity, commission, profit sharing or other extra compensation. Seventy-one percent of this years respondents received a raise during the past 12 months, down from 84 percent a year earlier.
This years respondent pool had an average age of 44 years, and 17 years of experience in the industry, including six in their current position. The median number of people supervised by this group was eight.
Those who supervised more than 12 people earned significantly more than those supervising a dozen or less — $75,501 versus $61,637. But the survey showed no clear link between salaries and employer size or length of time in current position.
The results for plant managers were based on responses from 85 individuals, compared to 92 last year. Data on responses from plant managers is reported in the October issue of LubesnGreases, published this week. The magazine reported results for sales and marketing professionals in September and will report laboratory manager salaries next month.
The complete salary survey report, including year-to-year comparisons, will go on sale in November. For information: LNG Publishing Inc., 6105-G Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA 22044. Phone: (703) 536-0800. Fax: (703) 536-0803.