How much does a CNC Machinist make?
Becoming a CNC machinist can lead to a steady and rewarding career. On average, CNC machinists earn about $54,407 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the industry you work in.
Most CNC machinists start with a modest salary when they first begin their careers. As they gain more experience and skills, their earnings can increase. For example, machinists with just a few years of experience might earn around $35,000 per year. Those with over a decade of experience can expect to make closer to $77,000 or more annually.
Location also plays a significant role in salary. States with a higher demand for CNC machinists, such as those in manufacturing hubs, tend to offer higher wages. The industry you choose can also affect your salary. Industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices usually offer competitive pay for skilled machinists.
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $69,410
Boston offers a dynamic environment for machinists. Many tech firms in the area provide opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects. Companies like General Dynamics and Raytheon seek skilled professionals to join their teams.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $69,062
In New Haven, machinists enjoy a mix of industry and innovation. Companies such as United Technologies and Precision Castparts Corp. focus on advanced manufacturing, ensuring a steady flow of work. The city's rich history in manufacturing adds to its appeal.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $66,615
Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and technology, which creates a demand for skilled machinists. Firms like Northrop Grumman and Boeing Aviation rely on precise craftsmanship. The city's diverse industries offer a variety of projects to work on.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $66,264
Huntsville is known for its aerospace sector, making it a great place for machinists. Companies such as Aerojet Rocketdyne and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center provide opportunities to work on important projects. The strong emphasis on technology creates a competitive job market.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $65,587
Seattle's thriving tech industry offers many opportunities for machinists. Companies like Boeing and Amazon Web Services need skilled professionals. The city's innovative environment ensures a constant demand for precision and expertise.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $65,333
Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama, which boosts the demand for skilled machinists. Local firms and university research projects offer a mix of work. The collaborative environment helps professionals grow and develop their skills.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,429
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, where machinists are in high demand. Tech giants like Intel and Apple require precision in their manufacturing. The innovative culture provides a chance to work on cutting-edge technology.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $63,750
Salem offers a blend of manufacturing and natural beauty. Companies in the area, such as Tektronix and Oregon Health & Science University, provide steady work. The smaller city size offers a closer community feel.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,529
Minneapolis is known for its strong manufacturing sector. Companies like 3M and Cargill offer diverse opportunities. The city's commitment to industry and technology ensures a steady flow of projects for skilled machinists.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $61,946
Sacramento is a growing city with a need for skilled machinists. Local companies and government projects provide a variety of work. The city's focus on infrastructure and innovation offers a promising career path.
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What are the best companies a CNC Machinist can work for?

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L3Harris
Average Salary: $83,555
L3Harris offers exciting CNC Machinist roles with top-notch salaries. They work across various locations, including Melbourne, Florida; San Diego, California; and Syracuse, New York. These roles allow machinists to create precise and high-quality components.
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STROHWIG INDUSTRIES
Average Salary: $83,111
STROHWIG INDUSTRIES is known for its competitive salaries and high-quality CNC Machinist positions. The company operates in locations such as Grand Rapids, Michigan; Seattle, Washington; and Huntsville, Alabama. Machinists here work on innovative projects and benefit from a supportive environment.
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CTR Group
Average Salary: $82,636
CTR Group offers CNC Machinist jobs with attractive compensation. They have facilities in locations like Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Austin, Texas; and San Francisco, California. This company values skilled machinists who can produce detailed and precise parts.
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Modus Advanced
Average Salary: $81,346
Modus Advanced provides competitive salaries for CNC Machinist roles. They operate in cities such as Boston, Massachusetts; Denver, Colorado; and Chicago, Illinois. Machinists here have the chance to work on cutting-edge projects and enhance their skills.
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Blue Origin
Average Salary: $77,813
Blue Origin offers CNC Machinist positions with a strong focus on innovation. They work out of locations like Kent, Washington; Cape Canaveral, Florida; and Littleton, Colorado. Machinists can contribute to exciting space exploration projects.
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Rocket Lab USA
Average Salary: $75,542
Rocket Lab USA offers CNC Machinist jobs with a solid salary. They operate in locations such as Long Beach, California; and Henderson, Nevada. This company values skilled machinists who can work on critical aerospace components.
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Toolcraft Machining
Average Salary: $75,520
Toolcraft Machining provides CNC Machinist roles with a respectable salary. They have facilities in cities like Cincinnati, Ohio; Dallas, Texas; and Portland, Oregon. Machinists here work on a variety of projects and benefit from a skilled team.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $74,714
Kratos Defense offers CNC Machinist positions with competitive pay. They operate in locations such as San Diego, California; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Huntsville, Alabama. Machinists here can work on important defense projects and grow their careers.
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Barber-Nichols Inc.
Average Salary: $73,400
Barber-Nichols Inc. provides CNC Machinist jobs with a good salary. They have facilities in cities such as Denver, Colorado; Houston, Texas; and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Machinists here benefit from a positive work environment and diverse projects.
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Astrix Technology Group
Average Salary: $72,442
Astrix Technology Group offers CNC Machinist roles with a solid average salary. They operate in locations like Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Austin, Texas. Machinists here work on innovative projects and enjoy a supportive team environment.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
Becoming a CNC machinist can lead to a rewarding career with the potential to earn a good income. However, it’s possible to earn even more by taking certain steps. The following strategies can help increase a CNC machinist's earnings.
First, gaining additional certifications can significantly boost earning potential. Certifications from organizations like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) can demonstrate proficiency and dedication to the field. They often lead to higher pay rates as employers value skilled professionals.
Second, specialization in areas such as high-speed machining or multi-axis machining can also increase earning potential. These skills are in high demand and can command higher salaries. Gaining expertise in advanced CNC programming or working with specialized materials can set a machinist apart in the job market.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications from recognized organizations like NIMS.
- Specialization: Focus on advanced areas such as high-speed machining or multi-axis programming.
- Continuous Learning: Regularly update skills through workshops, courses, and training programs.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals to learn about high-paying job opportunities.
- Geographical Location: Consider relocating to areas with a higher demand for CNC machinists.



