CNC Machinist Salaries
How much does a CNC Machinist make?
A CNC Machinist uses computer-controlled machines to create metal parts. This skilled job pays well. On average, a CNC Machinist makes about $52,607 a year. This is a good salary for many people.
The pay for a CNC Machinist can vary. Some earn less, while others earn more. Here are the salary ranges for different levels of experience:
- Entry-level: $35,000 to $38,727
- Mid-level: $42,455 to $49,909
- Senior-level: $53,636 to $76,000
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,300
In San Francisco, skilled machinists work with cutting-edge technology in a thriving tech hub. Companies like Tesla and Oracle offer exciting opportunities. The city's dynamic environment provides a perfect blend of innovation and tradition.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $65,028
Huntsville, known as Rocket City, offers machinists a chance to work in aerospace and defense. Companies such as NASA and Lockheed Martin provide a stable and rewarding career path. The community values skilled tradespeople, making it a great place to build a career.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $63,442
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hotspot for machinists. Tech giants like Apple and Intel need skilled professionals. The city's vibrant tech scene offers many chances for growth and development.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $62,386
Los Angeles provides a diverse job market for machinists. The entertainment industry and aerospace sector offer many opportunities. Companies like Boeing and Northrop Grumman are always looking for skilled machinists.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $61,846
Seattle's booming tech industry offers machinists a variety of job opportunities. Companies such as Amazon and Microsoft need skilled professionals. The city's innovative spirit makes it an exciting place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $61,782
San Diego offers a mix of military and tech opportunities for machinists. Companies like General Dynamics and Qualcomm need skilled tradespeople. The city's beautiful weather and quality of life make it an attractive place to work.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $61,150
Minneapolis provides a strong job market for machinists. The city's diverse industries, including healthcare and finance, offer many opportunities. Companies like 3M and Medtronic need skilled professionals.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $58,070
Birmingham offers a growing job market for machinists. The city's automotive industry, including companies like Mercedes-Benz and Honda, provides many opportunities. Birmingham's welcoming community makes it a great place to build a career.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $57,894
Sacramento offers a stable job market for machinists. The state government and agricultural sector provide many opportunities. Companies like Blue Shield of California and various agricultural firms need skilled professionals.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $57,827
Springfield offers a mix of manufacturing and healthcare opportunities for machinists. Companies like MassMutual and Smith & Wesson need skilled tradespeople. The city's rich history and community spirit make it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a CNC Machinist can work for?

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Madicorp
Average Salary: $101,263
Madicorp offers CNC Machinist jobs with a focus on Lean Manufacturing. They operate in various locations, providing opportunities for skilled professionals. Their commitment to quality and efficiency makes them a top choice for CNC Machinists.
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Lean Manufacturing
Average Salary: $100,333
Lean Manufacturing specializes in CNC Machinist roles. They have multiple locations, offering diverse opportunities for growth. Their dedication to lean principles ensures a dynamic and rewarding work environment.
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Savard Labor & Marine Staffing
Average Salary: $98,111
Savard Labor & Marine Staffing provides CNC Machinist jobs with competitive salaries. They operate in various regions, giving candidates a chance to work in different settings. Their focus on staffing excellence makes them a reliable employer.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $89,011
L3Harris offers CNC Machinist positions with a strong emphasis on innovation. They have locations across the country, providing a wide range of opportunities. Their commitment to technology and excellence attracts skilled professionals.
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Universal Technical Resource Services, INC.
Average Salary: $78,000
Universal Technical Resource Services, INC. offers CNC Machinist jobs with a focus on technical expertise. They operate in several locations, providing a variety of opportunities. Their dedication to training and development makes them a great place to work.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $76,071
Kratos Defense provides CNC Machinist jobs with a focus on defense technology. They have multiple locations, offering diverse opportunities. Their commitment to innovation and quality makes them a top employer.
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Keysight Technologies
Average Salary: $74,482
Keysight Technologies offers CNC Machinist positions with a focus on technology and innovation. They operate in various locations, providing a range of opportunities. Their dedication to excellence makes them a great choice for professionals.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $73,909
BWX Technologies provides CNC Machinist jobs with a focus on technology and innovation. They have locations across the country, offering diverse opportunities. Their commitment to quality and safety makes them a reliable employer.
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Exact Machine Service, Inc.
Average Salary: $73,750
Exact Machine Service, Inc. offers CNC Machinist positions with a focus on precision and quality. They operate in various locations, providing a range of opportunities. Their dedication to excellence makes them a top choice for professionals.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $73,690
BAE Systems USA provides CNC Machinist jobs with a focus on technology and innovation. They have multiple locations, offering diverse opportunities. Their commitment to excellence and safety makes them a great place to work.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
A CNC machinist can increase earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in CNC machining can lead to higher-paying positions. Specializing in advanced techniques or specific industries can make a machinist more valuable. Networking with professionals in the industry can open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Continuing education and certifications can also boost earning potential. Staying updated with the latest technology and software in CNC machining can make a machinist more efficient and productive.
Here are five factors that can help a CNC machinist earn more:
- Experience: Gaining more experience can lead to higher-paying jobs. Working on complex projects and mastering advanced techniques can make a machinist more valuable.
- Specialization: Specializing in a specific area can increase earning potential. This could mean focusing on a particular industry or mastering a specific type of CNC machining.
- Networking: Building a professional network can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attending industry events and connecting with other professionals can be beneficial.
- Education: Continuing education and obtaining certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs. This could include courses in advanced CNC techniques or software.
- Technology: Staying updated with the latest technology and software can improve efficiency and productivity. This can lead to higher earnings and more job opportunities.