Process, plant and machine operatives vs Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals Salary (2025)
How do Process, plant and machine operatives and Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals salaries compare in the UK? Here is a detailed side-by-side breakdown.
Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals earns £21,112 more per year (64% higher)
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Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Process, plant and machine operatives | Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Annual | £33,171 | £54,283 | -£21,112 |
| Mean Annual | £34,903 | £57,622 | -£22,719 |
| Monthly | £2,764 | £4,524 | -£1,760 |
| Weekly | £638 | £1,044 | -£406 |
| Hourly | £15.95 | £26.10 | -£10.15 |
Salary Range Comparison
| Percentile | Process, plant and machine operatives | Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (Entry) | £17,094 | £32,169 |
| 25th | £26,372 | £41,963 |
| 50th (Median) | £33,171 | £54,283 |
| 75th | £42,276 | £69,410 |
| 90th (Senior) | £52,540 | £87,125 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who earns more, a Process, plant and machine operatives or a Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals?
A Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals earns more. The median salary for a Process, plant and machine operatives is £33,171, whilst a Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals earns £54,283 — a difference of £21,112 per year.
What is the salary difference between a Process, plant and machine operatives and a Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals?
The difference is £21,112 per year. Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals is the higher-paid role.
Should I become a Process, plant and machine operatives or a Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals?
From a salary perspective, Research and Development (R&D) and Other Research Professionals offers higher median pay. However, career choice depends on many factors including interests, qualifications, work-life balance and long-term prospects.
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