They asked my salary range, what should I say? after 12 years as a machine operator

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a machine operator. I do not want to price myself out. How do you research fairly?

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it last year, and it settled down once I kept a simple log of every call and form.

Benefits matter too. A slightly lower rate with better coverage was better for me.