How much does a CNC Machinist make?
CNC Machinists play a vital role in various industries, from manufacturing to aerospace. The salary for this profession can vary based on experience and location. An entry-level CNC Machinist can expect to earn around $35,500 a year. As experience grows, so can the salary. Skilled CNC Machinists can make between $50,000 and $60,000 annually. The top earners can make more than $75,000 per year.
Several factors can influence the salary of a CNC Machinist. These include location, company size, and the industry. Urban areas and larger companies often offer higher salaries. Experienced CNC Machinists who work in high-demand industries like aerospace might earn more. It is important for job seekers to research and understand these factors when considering job opportunities.
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $76,875
Working in San Francisco offers a blend of tech innovation and skilled craftsmanship. Many firms here seek skilled operators to handle advanced machinery. Companies like Tesla and various tech startups rely on precision machinists.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $69,062
New Haven presents a mix of historical industries and modern manufacturing. Opportunities exist for those who can handle sophisticated equipment. Local businesses benefit from skilled machinists to produce high-quality goods.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $66,206
In Huntsville, the aerospace and defense sectors create a demand for expert machinists. Professionals here play a key role in developing cutting-edge technologies. The presence of companies like Aerojet Rocketdyne supports skilled job seekers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $66,098
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for machinists, with a focus on entertainment and automotive industries. Skilled workers can find roles in film production and car manufacturing. Companies often seek those who can deliver high precision.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,544
Seattle provides a tech-driven landscape where precision is crucial. The city's strong tech scene, including companies like Boeing, offers many opportunities. Professionals here create components for advanced machinery.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,414
San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley, where tech innovation drives demand for precision machinists. The area's tech giants rely on skilled operators. Working here offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,322
Minneapolis combines industrial heritage with modern manufacturing. The city offers roles in both automotive and medical device sectors. Companies need skilled machinists to produce high-quality parts and devices.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $61,891
Des Moines presents a blend of agriculture and manufacturing. Opportunities exist for those who can operate advanced machinery. Local firms often require precision machinists to produce durable goods.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $61,585
Manchester offers a mix of small businesses and larger corporations. The city's diverse industries seek skilled machinists. Companies in manufacturing and tech rely on precision work to meet high standards.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $61,542
Tuscaloosa combines education and industry, creating a unique job market for machinists. The presence of the University of Alabama fosters a skilled workforce. Local businesses seek professionals who can handle sophisticated machinery.
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What are the best companies a CNC Machinist can work for?

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Comcentric
Average Salary: $96,615
Comcentric offers competitive salaries for CNC Machinist jobs. They focus on aerospace and defense. Locations include Maryland, Virginia, and California.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $85,729
L3Harris provides CNC Machinist jobs with an average salary of $85,729. They work on cutting-edge technologies for defense and commercial markets. Locations include Florida, Texas, and Colorado.
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STROHWIG INDUSTRIES
Average Salary: $81,852
STROHWIG INDUSTRIES pays CNC Machinists around $81,852. They specialize in manufacturing for aerospace and defense. They operate in Michigan, California, and Ohio.
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Rocket Lab USA
Average Salary: $78,088
Rocket Lab USA offers CNC Machinist positions with an average salary of $78,088. They focus on aerospace. Their main locations are in Virginia and California.
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Exact Machine Service, Inc.
Average Salary: $77,396
Exact Machine Service, Inc. provides jobs for CNC Machinists with an average salary of $77,396. They offer machining services across various industries. Locations include Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
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Toolcraft Machining
Average Salary: $75,962
Toolcraft Machining pays CNC Machinists an average of $75,962. They are experts in precision machining. They operate in Michigan and Arizona.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $75,889
Kratos Defense offers CNC Machinist jobs with an average salary of $75,889. They work in defense and security. Locations include California, Virginia, and Arizona.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $75,627
Northrop Grumman provides CNC Machinist positions with an average salary of $75,627. They focus on aerospace and defense. Locations include California, Virginia, and Texas.
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Kennametal
Average Salary: $74,586
Kennametal offers CNC Machinist jobs with an average salary of $74,586. They provide manufacturing solutions for various industries. Locations include Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Colorado.
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Keysight Technologies
Average Salary: $74,090
Keysight Technologies pays CNC Machinists an average of $74,090. They focus on electronic measurement. Locations include California, Massachusetts, and Washington.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
CNC machinists can boost their earnings by focusing on several key areas. By investing in further education and certifications, machinists can open up higher-paying opportunities. Advanced training in software, programming, or specific machinery can set a machinist apart and lead to more lucrative roles. Staying current with the latest technologies and techniques also helps in enhancing job performance and increasing value to employers.
Gaining experience and mastering new skills can lead to promotions or higher-paying positions. Networking within the industry can provide job seekers with insider information about better-paying jobs. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can lead to new opportunities. Additionally, seeking positions in high-demand sectors, such as aerospace or medical device manufacturing, can lead to higher salaries. Taking on roles that require additional responsibilities, such as supervising other machinists or overseeing projects, can also lead to increased earnings. Building a strong portfolio showcasing completed projects and skills can further enhance a machinist's ability to command higher pay.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a CNC machinist:
- Certifications and Training: Invest in further education to gain advanced certifications and skills.
- Experience and Specialization: Gain experience and master new skills to increase job performance and value.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals to learn about better-paying job opportunities.
- Industry Demand: Seek jobs in high-demand sectors to access higher salaries.
- Leadership Roles: Take on roles that offer additional responsibilities and higher pay.



