What Do Capital Goods Jobs Pay
If you considering a career in the capital goods industry? you’re probably curious about what kind of salaries these jobs can offer. Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 10 highest paying capital goods jobs out there. From sales engineers to manufacturing managers, we’ll break down each position’s average salary and key responsibilities. Plus, we’ll compare how capital goods jobs stack up against other industries and highlight some benefits of working in this exciting field. So grab your hard hat and let’s dive into the world of high-paying capital goods jobs!
Table of Contents
What are capital goods?
Capital goods are physical assets that businesses use to create other goods and services. These include machinery, equipment, buildings, and infrastructure. Unlike consumer goods which are used directly by individuals for personal consumption or enjoyment, capital goods are used in the production process.
For example, a construction company would need bulldozers, cranes and excavators to build roads or skyscrapers. Without these capital goods, they wouldn’t be able to produce their end product – completed structures.
In addition to tangible assets like machinery and equipment, technology can also be considered a capital good. This includes software programs or specialized tools that companies use in their day-to-day operations.
Capital goods play an essential role in driving economic growth by enabling businesses to streamline their processes and increase productivity. As such, careers within this industry tend to offer competitive salaries due to the importance of maintaining these critical assets.
What do capital goods jobs pay?

Capital goods jobs refer to positions in companies that produce equipment, machinery, and other products used by businesses and industries. These jobs require specialized knowledge and skills, making them highly valued in the labor market.
The pay for capital goods jobs varies depending on several factors such as job title, experience level, industry specialization, and location. Sales engineers are among the highest-paid capital goods professionals with a median annual salary of $101,420 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Industrial designers also earn competitive salaries with a median wage of $68,890 per year.
Marketing managers in the capital goods industry make an average salary of around $135k per year while senior mechanical engineers make roughly $92k annually. Business development managers can expect to earn around $104k per year while research and development managers may receive an average annual compensation package upwards of $141k.
Manufacturing managers typically earn about $105k per year while quality control managers can command salaries ranging from approximately 64K up to 130K annually based on experience levels. Development Managers have a higher range starting at 80K up to over 200K for those working in large organizations or with significant tenure years within their company. Finally Director-level roles such as The “Director Of Manufacturing” usually starts at six figures salaries even without counting bonuses or other perks like stock options etc…
Capital Goods Jobs offer lucrative career opportunities for skilled professionals seeking high-paying work within dynamic industries where they can use their expertise to create new products that improve people’s lives around the world.
The 10 Highest Paying Capital Goods Jobs
- Sales engineer

Sales engineers are a crucial part of the capital goods industry. These professionals bridge the gap between technical knowledge and salesmanship, making sure that clients get exactly what they need to meet their specific needs. As a result, sales engineers are among the highest paid professionals in this sector.
The role of sales engineers is to identify potential customers and help them find solutions that fit their unique requirements. This involves creating proposals based on customer specifications, as well as working with design teams to create prototypes or custom products.
In addition to having excellent communication skills and extensive product knowledge, successful sales engineers must also be able to build relationships with customers over time. They should have sound negotiation abilities and be comfortable closing deals worth millions of dollars.
Most companies require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or business for aspiring sales engineers; however, some firms prefer candidates who have an advanced degree in these fields. Experience counts too – many employers seek seasoned professionals who have worked in manufacturing or other industrial settings before joining their team.
Sales Engineers play an essential role in driving revenue growth within capital goods companies by demonstrating how their products can solve complex problems faced by customers across different industries.
- Industrial Designer

Industrial Designers are responsible for creating and developing product designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They work closely with engineers, manufacturers, and clients to ensure that their designs meet the needs of consumers while remaining within budget constraints.
One of the main responsibilities of an Industrial Designer is to create sketches and 3D models using specialized software programs. These designs must be highly detailed and accurate in order to ensure that products can be manufactured efficiently.
Industrial Designers also need to have a strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and engineering principles. This allows them to design products that not only look great but also function properly.
In terms of salary, Industrial Designers typically earn an average annual wage of around $66k per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, top earners in this field can make upwards of $100k per year depending on their level of experience and expertise.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an Industrial Designer, it’s important to obtain a degree in industrial or product design from an accredited institution. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can help you stand out when applying for more advanced roles later on in your career.
- Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers play a crucial role in the capital goods industry. They are responsible for developing and implementing effective marketing strategies that will promote and sell products to target customers. This position requires creativity, strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of market trends.
A Marketing Manager’s primary responsibility is to identify customer needs and preferences, develop targeted campaigns that reach those customers through various channels such as social media, email marketing or advertising campaigns. They also analyze data to track campaign effectiveness while ensuring they stay within budget guidelines.
To excel in this position, you need to have strong analytical skills that help you understand complex data sets & market trends better. As a Marketing Manager working for Capital Goods companies typically pays well with an average salary between $80-120k per year depending on experience.
If you’re interested in becoming a Marketing Manager for Capital Goods companies then obtaining relevant degrees like Bachelor’s/Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is highly recommended. Additionally, gaining practical experience by taking internship roles or entry-level positions can be helpful towards landing your dream job!
- Senior mechanical engineer

A senior mechanical engineer is a crucial role in the capital goods industry, responsible for designing and developing complex mechanical systems that are used in various manufacturing processes. They also oversee production activities to ensure quality standards are met.
To become a senior mechanical engineer, one must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering and several years of experience working as an engineer. The salary for this position ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 per year depending on location and company size.
In addition to technical skills, senior mechanical engineers must possess excellent communication abilities since they need to interact with different departments such as marketing and sales. They should be able to work well under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.
The demand for experienced senior mechanical engineers continues to grow due to advancements in technology leading to the development of new machinery and equipment. With these advancements comes increased competition among companies looking for top talent.
Being a senior mechanical engineer offers an exciting career path with opportunities for professional growth within the capital goods industry.
- Business development Manager

Business Development Managers are responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities to help their company grow. They work closely with other departments, such as sales and marketing, to develop strategies that will help the company achieve its goals.
One of the key responsibilities of a Business Development Manager is to research potential clients and markets. This involves analyzing market trends, identifying potential customers, and determining what products or services are in demand.
Once they have identified potential clients or markets, Business Development Managers must then develop relationships with those prospects. This may involve attending industry events or conferences, networking with other professionals in the field, or even cold-calling potential customers.
Another important aspect of this role is negotiating contracts and deals with clients. Business Development Managers must be skilled at communicating the value of their company’s offerings while also ensuring that any agreements are fair and beneficial for both parties involved.
Becoming a successful Business Development Manager requires a combination of strategic thinking skills, strong communication abilities, and an ability to build lasting relationships within the industry. It can be a challenging but rewarding career path for anyone interested in helping companies grow through innovative business strategies.
- Research and development manager

A research and development (R&D) manager is responsible for leading a team of scientists, engineers and technicians to develop new products or improve existing ones. They oversee the entire R&D process from concept to production, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget and meet quality standards.
To be successful in this role, an R&D manager must have excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate their team towards achieving set goals. They should also possess strong analytical skills that enable them to assess market trends and identify areas for innovation.
The job outlook for R&D managers is promising as companies continue to invest heavily in research and development efforts. In terms of pay, according to Glassdoor.com the average salary for an R&D Manager is $125k per year in the United States which makes it one of the highest paying capital goods jobs.
Being an R&D manager requires a combination of technical expertise and strong business acumen. It’s a challenging but rewarding career choice for those who enjoy pushing boundaries and driving innovation forward.
- Manufacturing manager

The manufacturing manager is a crucial role in the capital goods industry, responsible for overseeing all aspects of production to ensure efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes.
This job requires outstanding leadership skills, as well as technical expertise in areas such as production planning, quality control, and supply chain management. A successful manufacturing manager must be able to manage teams effectively while keeping an eye on the big picture.
One important aspect of this role is identifying opportunities for process improvement and implementing changes that improve efficiency and reduce costs without sacrificing quality. The manufacturing manager must also work closely with other departments such as engineering, procurement, logistics, and sales to ensure that products are produced according to customer specifications.
To become a successful manufacturing manager in the capital goods industry typically requires several years of experience working in related positions such as production supervisor or operations manager. A bachelor’s degree in engineering or business administration can also help prepare candidates for this type of role.
The position of a Manufacturing Manager is key for any company that wants to produce high-quality products at low costs – it’s definitely one of the highest paying jobs within Capital Goods Industry!
- Quality control manager

Quality control managers are responsible for ensuring that products meet certain quality standards before they reach customers. They oversee the entire production process, from raw materials to finished goods, and work closely with other departments such as manufacturing and engineering.
One of their main responsibilities is to create and implement quality control procedures that adhere to industry regulations and company policies. This involves conducting regular inspections, analyzing data, and making necessary adjustments to maintain high-quality standards.
In addition, quality control managers may also be involved in training employees on proper quality control practices and techniques. They must have excellent communication skills in order to effectively relay information about any issues or concerns regarding product quality.
A successful quality control manager must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of industry regulations. They should also stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology related to their field.
A career as a quality control manager can be challenging yet rewarding for those who enjoy ensuring top-notch product quality while working closely with others across various departments within an organization.
- Development manager

A Development Manager is a crucial role in the capital goods industry, responsible for overseeing the creation and implementation of new products or processes. They manage teams of engineers, designers, and other specialists to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
One key responsibility of a Development Manager is to identify potential areas for improvement or innovation and then develop strategies to address them. This requires strong analytical skills as well as an ability to think creatively.
In addition to managing projects, a Development Manager must also be adept at working with cross-functional teams across departments such as marketing, finance, and manufacturing. Clear communication skills are essential here in order to ensure that everyone is aligned towards common goals.
Experience-wise, most Development Managers have previous experience working in engineering or product development roles before moving into management positions. Strong leadership skills are necessary along with technical expertise so they can communicate complex ideas effectively.
Being a Development Manager can be very rewarding but it requires someone who is willing to put in long hours while ensuring high standards are always met.
- Director of manufacturing

The Director of Manufacturing is a high-level position that oversees the entire production process in a manufacturing facility. This job requires strong leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple teams to ensure that production goals are met.
One of the primary responsibilities of a Director of Manufacturing is to develop and implement strategies for improving efficiency, productivity, and quality control. They work closely with other departments, such as engineering, sales, and marketing, to ensure that products meet customer demands while remaining profitable for the company.
Another important aspect of this role is managing staff members across different shifts or locations. The Director must be able to communicate effectively with their team members while also being able to set clear expectations and hold people accountable.
In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations, Directors of Manufacturing also need to stay up-to-date on industry trends and advancements in technology. By doing so, they can identify areas where improvements can be made within their own facilities.
This is a challenging but rewarding position that requires both technical expertise and strong leadership skills. For those who enjoy problem-solving and driving positive change within an organization, becoming a Director of Manufacturing could be an excellent career path.
Types of capital goods

In the capital goods industry, there are several types of goods produced and sold. These products range from heavy machinery to small tools used in various industries.
- One common type of capital good is industrial equipment. This includes machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and other heavy-duty vehicles used in construction sites or manufacturing plants.
- Another type of capital good is electronic devices for commercial use like computer servers and data storage systems that companies need to operate effectively.
- Transportation equipment such as airplanes, trains or ships are also part of this category since they require significant investment for production and maintenance.
- Capital goods can also include office furniture, fixtures, software technologies needed by businesses to function efficiently.
- The demand for different types of capital goods varies depending on the industry’s economic activity level; some will experience higher sales volumes than others during certain periods.
Each type requires specific skills from professionals working in the sector to meet customer expectations while maintaining quality standards at all times.
How do capital goods jobs compare to other industries?
Capital goods jobs are highly specialized and require a specific set of skills. Compared to other industries, capital goods jobs tend to offer higher salaries due to the complexity of the work involved.
In addition, capital goods industries often have more long-term stability compared to other sectors such as retail or hospitality which can be subject to seasonal fluctuations in demand.
Another benefit of working in the capital goods industry is the opportunity for career growth and advancement. With various managerial positions available, individuals can climb up the corporate ladder with experience and determination.
However, it’s important to note that job security may not always be guaranteed in any industry. The increasing trend towards automation could potentially impact certain roles within the capital goods sector.
While there are both advantages and challenges associated with working in this field, those who possess a passion for innovation and problem-solving will find fulfilling careers within the world of capital goods.
What are the benefits of working in the capital goods industry?
Working in the capital goods industry comes with a variety of benefits. One major benefit is job security, as there will always be a need for capital goods and those who design, manufacture, and sell them. Additionally, many positions within the industry offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement.
Another advantage of working in this field is the opportunity to work on innovative projects that have significant impacts on various industries. Being involved in developing new technologies or products can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding.
Furthermore, many companies in the capital goods industry place a strong emphasis on employee training and development. This means that employees are often provided with educational programs or mentoring opportunities to help them enhance their skills and advance their careers.
In addition to these professional benefits, there are also personal perks such as flexible schedules or remote work options available at some companies within the industry.
Working in the capital goods industry offers individuals an exciting career path with numerous opportunities for growth both personally and professionally.
How to get a job in the capital goods industry?
If you’re interested in working in the capital goods industry, there are a few steps you can take to increase your chances of landing a job. First, make sure you have the necessary education and experience for the position you’re applying for. Consider obtaining a degree or certification in engineering, business administration, or another related field.
Networking is also important when it comes to finding jobs in this industry. Attend trade shows and conferences to meet professionals already working in the field. Joining professional organizations such as The National Association of Manufacturers could be helpful too.
Another way to get noticed by potential employers is through internships or apprenticeships with companies that manufacture capital goods. Many larger companies offer these programs as a way to train future employees and identify talent early on.
Capital goods jobs offer some of the highest salaries across all industries but require specialized skills and expertise. If you are willing to put effort into attaining proper education credentials along with networking within Industry associations then this might just be your dream career path!