How much does a CNC Machinist make?
A CNC Machinist plays a key role in the manufacturing industry. They set up and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to create precise parts. Their work requires skill and attention to detail. On average, a CNC Machinist makes about $54,225 per year. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the industry they work in.
Here are some salary ranges for CNC Machinists. At the lower end, the first 10% of earners make around $35,000 to $39,000. As experience grows, so does the salary. The top 10% earn over $75,000. Some of the highest-paying industries include aerospace, automotive, and medical equipment manufacturing. Jobs in larger cities often pay more due to the higher cost of living.
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $82,727
San Francisco offers a vibrant job market with plenty of opportunities. Companies in this tech hub rely on skilled machinists. Tech giants and manufacturing firms create a steady demand.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $69,410
In Boston, machinists find work in both tech and healthcare sectors. Many companies value skilled machinists for precision work. The city's strong economy supports job stability.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $69,062
New Haven is home to several educational institutions and manufacturing companies. Machinists here enjoy a mix of academic and industrial opportunities. Prominent firms value precision and experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $66,294
Los Angeles provides a diverse range of industries for machinists. From entertainment to aerospace, skilled workers are in demand. The city's large economy offers many job openings.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $65,944
Huntsville has a strong focus on aerospace and defense. Machinists here work with cutting-edge technology. The city's major companies provide stable job opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $65,387
Seattle's job market for machinists benefits from tech and aerospace industries. Companies in this area value precision and skill. The city's economy supports a strong demand for machinists.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $64,239
Tuscaloosa offers a mix of manufacturing and educational opportunities. Local companies value experienced machinists. The area's growing industries create steady job prospects.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $63,112
San Jose, part of Silicon Valley, offers machinists a tech-driven job market. Companies in electronics and aerospace seek skilled machinists. The city's strong economy provides many opportunities.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,303
Minneapolis features a blend of manufacturing and tech companies. Machinists here enjoy diverse job opportunities. The city's economic growth supports a steady demand for skilled workers.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $61,758
In Manchester, machinists find work in manufacturing and aerospace sectors. Local companies rely on skilled machinists for precision work. The city's growing industries offer stable job opportunities.
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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 high-paying CNC Machinist jobs in California and other locations. They focus on aerospace and defense, providing a competitive salary.
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CTR Group
Average Salary: $85,300
CTR Group provides CNC Machinist positions with a solid average salary. They are located in North Carolina and offer a range of aerospace-related opportunities.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $84,532
L3Harris offers CNC Machinist jobs with a good salary across various locations, including Florida and Virginia, focusing on defense and aviation.
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STROHWIG INDUSTRIES
Average Salary: $82,885
STROHWIG INDUSTRIES provides CNC Machinist roles with a competitive average salary. They operate in South Carolina and offer numerous opportunities in the manufacturing sector.
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Modus Advanced
Average Salary: $77,708
Modus Advanced offers CNC Machinist positions with a solid salary. They are based in Pennsylvania and work on a variety of high-tech projects.
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Rocket Lab USA
Average Salary: $77,275
Rocket Lab USA provides CNC Machinist jobs with a competitive salary. They are located in California and work on cutting-edge space technology.
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Toolcraft Machining
Average Salary: $75,481
Toolcraft Machining offers CNC Machinist positions with a good average salary. They operate in Wisconsin and specialize in precision machining.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $75,393
Kratos Defense provides CNC Machinist jobs with a competitive salary. They are located in Massachusetts and focus on defense and security solutions.
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Blue Origin
Average Salary: $74,548
Blue Origin offers CNC Machinist positions with a good salary. They are based in Washington and work on space exploration technology.
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Keysight Technologies
Average Salary: $73,475
Keysight Technologies provides CNC Machinist jobs with a solid salary. They operate in California and focus on electronics and communication solutions.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
Becoming a high-earning CNC machinist means knowing how to maximize your skills and opportunities. One way to increase earnings is by obtaining additional certifications. These can include advanced CNC programming or CAD design skills. Employers often pay more for these specialized skills.
Experience matters. Gaining years of experience and mastering different types of machinery can lead to higher pay. Working in industries like aerospace, automotive, or medical devices can also offer better salaries. Taking on more responsibility, such as leading a team or managing projects, can also boost earnings. Here are five factors that can help increase pay as a CNC machinist:
- Get certified in advanced skills like CAD design or CNC programming.
- Gain experience in high-paying industries like aerospace or automotive.
- Take on more responsibility, such as leading a team or managing projects.
- Pursue a higher education degree or technical certificate in machining.
- Seek out jobs that require specialized knowledge or offer higher pay for skilled machinists.



