How much does a CNC Machinist make?
A CNC Machinist is a skilled professional who operates computer numerical control machines. These machines help create precise parts for various industries. The average yearly salary for a CNC Machinist is around $53,932. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
CNC Machinists can earn more as they gain more experience. The salary range can be quite broad. At the lower end, some CNC Machinists make around $35,950 per year. At the higher end, experienced professionals can earn up to $80,000 or more annually. The salary also depends on where the CNC Machinist works. Some regions offer higher wages than others. Industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices often pay more for skilled CNC Machinists.
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $74,111
In San Francisco, skilled machinists find opportunities in tech companies like Tesla and Oracle. The city's tech-driven economy offers a dynamic work environment. The average salary for machinists here is competitive.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $69,062
New Haven provides a mix of manufacturing and aerospace jobs. Companies like Hamilton Sundstrand offer promising roles. The city's rich history in manufacturing supports a steady demand for machinists.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $66,286
Huntsville, known for its aerospace industry, has many openings for machinists. Companies like Boeing and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center are prominent employers. The city offers a strong job market for skilled machinists.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $65,376
Los Angeles offers a diverse job market for machinists. The entertainment industry and manufacturing sectors provide many opportunities. The average salary for machinists in the area is attractive.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,197
Seattle's tech and aerospace industries create many job openings for machinists. Companies like Boeing and Amazon offer promising roles. The city's innovative environment supports a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,117
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, offers many opportunities for machinists. Tech giants like Intel and Apple provide numerous job openings. The city's tech-driven economy offers a dynamic work environment.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $61,915
Minneapolis offers a mix of manufacturing and tech jobs for machinists. Companies like 3M and Medtronic provide many opportunities. The city's strong job market supports a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $60,904
Des Moines offers a stable job market for machinists in manufacturing and agriculture. Companies like John Deere and Rockwell Collins provide many opportunities. The city's strong industry base supports a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $60,895
Fort Collins offers a mix of tech and manufacturing jobs. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace provide many opportunities. The city's growing tech sector supports a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $60,639
Stockton offers a mix of manufacturing and agricultural jobs. Companies like C&D Foods and Blue Diamond Growers provide many opportunities. The city's diverse industries support a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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What are the best companies a CNC Machinist can work for?

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Madicorp
Average Salary: $102,222
Madicorp is a leading company in the aerospace and defense sectors. They offer CNC Machinist jobs in various locations, including California and Texas. Madicorp values skilled machinists who can work with precision and attention to detail.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $87,591
L3Harris, a global aerospace and defense technology company, provides CNC Machinist positions in Florida and Arizona. They focus on innovation and quality, making them a great choice for machinists looking for a dynamic work environment.
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STROHWIG INDUSTRIES
Average Salary: $79,783
STROHWIG INDUSTRIES is a well-known player in the manufacturing industry. They offer CNC Machinist jobs in Ohio and Pennsylvania. The company emphasizes teamwork and continuous learning, providing machinists with opportunities to grow their skills.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $78,125
Kratos Defense is a prominent defense contractor with CNC Machinist openings in Colorado and Virginia. They value precision and reliability, offering machinists a chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
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Universal Technical Resource Services, INC.
Average Salary: $78,000
Universal Technical Resource Services, INC. offers CNC Machinist jobs in multiple states, including Georgia and North Carolina. They focus on providing quality training and development opportunities for their machinists.
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Rocket Lab USA
Average Salary: $77,693
Rocket Lab USA, a leading aerospace company, offers CNC Machinist positions in California. They are known for their innovative approach and commitment to excellence in manufacturing.
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Exact Machine Service, Inc.
Average Salary: $76,439
Exact Machine Service, Inc. provides CNC Machinist jobs in Michigan and Illinois. They offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for machinists to work on diverse projects.
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Toolcraft Machining
Average Salary: $75,833
Toolcraft Machining offers CNC Machinist jobs in Indiana and Wisconsin. They focus on precision and quality, providing machinists with a stable and rewarding career path.
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Kennametal
Average Salary: $75,707
Kennametal, a global leader in metalworking solutions, offers CNC Machinist jobs in Pennsylvania and Ohio. They emphasize innovation and customer satisfaction, making them a great choice for skilled machinists.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $75,015
BWX Technologies offers CNC Machinist jobs in Virginia and South Carolina. They focus on providing high-quality products and services, offering machinists a chance to work on important projects.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
A CNC machinist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in advanced CNC technologies can lead to higher-paying positions. Specializing in areas like programming, tool design, or quality control can make a machinist more valuable. Networking with industry professionals can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending workshops and training sessions can also enhance skills and knowledge.
Another way to earn more is by obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in specific CNC software or machinery can set a machinist apart. Working in a high-demand industry, such as aerospace or medical devices, can also lead to higher pay. Seeking out roles in areas with a shortage of skilled machinists can result in better compensation. Finally, taking on leadership roles or moving into management can significantly increase earnings. Each of these factors can contribute to a machinist's success and financial growth.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Gain experience and expertise in advanced CNC technologies.
- Obtain additional certifications in specific CNC software or machinery.
- Work in high-demand industries like aerospace or medical devices.
- Seek roles in areas with a shortage of skilled machinists.
- Take on leadership roles or move into management.



