Paper and wood machine operative Salary UK
Paper and wood machine operatives in the UK earn a median salary of £29,640 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £24,267 and £34,771. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Paper and wood machine operatives” (SOC 8131).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £30,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For paper and wood machine operatives, £30,360 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -22% versus the national average. Experienced paper and wood machine operatives (top 25%) earn over £34,771.
About this role
Scaffolders, stagers and riggers erect and dismantle scaffolding, temporary structures, stages and rigging for construction, maintenance, events and entertainment. They work at height following strict safety procedures and industry standards.
Key responsibilities
- Erecting and dismantling scaffolding and temporary structures
- Inspecting scaffolding for safety and compliance
- Rigging equipment for lifting and entertainment
- Working at height following CISRS standards
- Transporting and handling scaffold tubes and fittings
Qualifications and entry routes
CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card at appropriate level. NVQ Level 2 in Scaffolding. CSCS card. NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Confederation) provides industry standards.
Career outlook
Strong demand with skills shortages. CISRS-carded scaffolders command good rates. Events rigging and offshore scaffolding offer specialist career paths.
Key skills
Common industries
- Construction
- Industrial maintenance
- Events and entertainment
- Offshore oil and gas
- Shipbuilding
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£18,958
0-2 years
Mid Level
£24,267
3-7 years
Senior
£34,771
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +83% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 26.0%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£720
Paper and wood machine operative salary: common questions
How much do paper and wood machine operatives earn in the UK?
Is £30,360 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for paper and wood machine operatives?
Have paper and wood machine operatives salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for paper and wood machine operatives?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.