Position
Salary

How much does a Lathe Operator make?

The average salary for a Lathe Operator is $49,316 per year in the US.

Lathe operators have a range of salaries that reflect their experience and location. The average yearly salary for a lathe operator stands at around $49,316. This figure includes all experience levels, from entry-level positions to more experienced roles. The lowest-paid 10% earn about $34,000, while the highest-paid 10% can make upwards of $70,000.

Here are some important details about lathe operator salaries:

  • Entry-level positions often pay closer to the lower end of the salary range.
  • Experienced lathe operators usually find positions in the higher salary brackets.
  • Salaries may vary significantly based on geographic location and industry demand.
Understanding these factors can help job seekers target roles that match their experience and career goals.

View Lathe Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Lathe Operator?

High-paying cities for Lathe Operators include Rochester, NY, Phoenix, AZ, and Milwaukee, WI. These cities offer Lathe Operators competitive salaries, with Rochester topping the list. Job seekers looking to maximize earnings should consider exploring opportunities in these locations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Lathe Operator jobs, highlighting Rochester, NY with the highest at $58,412 and Springfield, MO with the lowest at $35,436.
  1. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $58,412
    In Rochester, skilled machinists excel in high-tech manufacturing firms. Companies like Bausch + Lomb and Eastman Kodak offer top-notch training and career advancement. Rochester's strong industrial base supports a steady demand for precision operators.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Rochester, NY


  2. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $57,298
    Phoenix boasts a thriving job market for those in the machining field. With major employers like Honeywell and Raytheon, professionals enjoy competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. The city's growth offers numerous opportunities for career development.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  3. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $51,609
    Milwaukee is known for its manufacturing roots, providing numerous positions for lathe operators. Companies such as Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson look for skilled workers. The city's robust industrial sector ensures a steady demand for quality machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI


  4. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $49,385
    Greensboro's manufacturing landscape features several large employers hiring lathe operators. Firms like HanesBrands and Volvo Group offer excellent growth opportunities. The city's industrial diversity supports a stable and rewarding career in machining.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Greensboro, NC


  5. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $48,311
    Houston's dynamic economy offers diverse opportunities for machinists. Major companies like Halliburton and Boeing require skilled lathe operators. The city's large-scale industries ensure a robust job market for precision machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Houston, TX


  6. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $47,804
    Minneapolis provides a thriving environment for machinists, with companies such as 3M and General Mills offering career growth. The city's strong industrial sector and investment in technology create many opportunities for skilled operators.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  7. Tulsa, OK
    Average Salary: $47,512
    Tulsa offers a supportive environment for machinists, with companies like ONEOK and Hillman Group providing ample job opportunities. The city's industrial focus ensures a steady demand for skilled precision operators.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Tulsa, OK


  8. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $47,446
    Tucson's industrial sector supports numerous positions for lathe operators. Companies like Raytheon and Freeport-McMoRan offer growth opportunities. The city's diverse industries ensure a stable and rewarding career path for machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  9. Springfield, MO
    Average Salary: $35,436
    Springfield's manufacturing industry offers many positions for lathe operators. Firms such as O'Reilly Automotive and Leggett & Platt seek skilled workers. The city's industrial presence provides a steady demand for quality machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO

What are the best companies a Lathe Operator can work for?

Global Contract Manufacturing Inc. stands out with an average salary of $57,615 for Lathe Operators. Accelera follows closely with a competitive average of $55,528. Crown Staffing also offers a solid salary of $51,364 for this role. These companies provide good opportunities for those seeking well-paying positions in this field. ARCH Medical Solutions and ETS, Inc. also offer decent salaries, with averages of $50,564 and $47,429 respectively. Express Employment International pays $45,354, while PMG PENNSYLVANIA, LLC offers $35,682. Each of these companies presents options for job seekers looking to advance their careers in lathe operation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Lathe Operator jobs, highlighting Global Contract Manufacturing Inc. with the highest at $57,615 and PMG PENNSYLVANIA, LLC with the lowest at $35,682.
  1. Global Contract Manufacturing Inc.
    Average Salary: $57,615
    Global Contract Manufacturing Inc. offers Lathe Operator roles with a competitive salary. The company works on high-tech manufacturing projects. They have locations across the country, including Ohio and New York.


  2. Accelera
    Average Salary: $55,528
    At Accelera, Lathe Operators can expect a solid salary. This company focuses on manufacturing and has various positions available. They operate in several states, including Michigan and California.


  3. Crown Staffing
    Average Salary: $51,364
    Crown Staffing provides Lathe Operator positions with a good salary. This company specializes in staffing and has many locations. You can find Crown Staffing in Illinois and Texas.


  4. ARCH Medical Solutions
    Average Salary: $50,564
    ARCH Medical Solutions offers Lathe Operator jobs with a respectable salary. They work in the medical device industry. This company has locations in Pennsylvania and Florida.


  5. ETS, Inc.
    Average Salary: $47,429
    ETS, Inc. provides Lathe Operator roles with a fair salary. They focus on manufacturing and have various positions. This company operates in several locations, including Ohio and Indiana.


  6. Express Employment International
    Average Salary: $45,354
    Express Employment International offers Lathe Operator jobs with a decent salary. This staffing company has numerous locations. They operate in many states, including Massachusetts and Wisconsin.


  7. PMG PENNSYLVANIA, LLC
    Average Salary: $35,682
    PMG PENNSYLVANIA, LLC provides Lathe Operator roles with a reasonable salary. This company specializes in staffing and has several positions available. They operate in Pennsylvania and other states.

How to earn more as a Lathe Operator?

Working as a Lathe Operator offers many opportunities to increase earnings. By focusing on certain factors, one can enhance their skills and potentially earn more. A well-rounded approach combining skill development, experience, and networking can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.

The following factors can help a Lathe Operator earn more:

  1. Certification: Earning relevant certifications can boost credibility and knowledge. Look for courses that offer CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining certificates.
  2. Experience: More experience leads to higher pay. Aim to work in environments where you can learn from seasoned professionals.
  3. Skills: Sharpen skills such as precision, attention to detail, and understanding of machinery. These skills can make a big difference in performance.
  4. Job Location: Wages can vary by region. Consider relocating to areas with higher demand and salaries for Lathe Operators.
  5. Networking: Connect with industry professionals. Attend trade shows and join professional organizations to expand opportunities.

Currently 129 Lathe Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Lathe Operator in the US?

Learn what a Lathe Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Lathe Operator today.
Position
Overview
Lathe Operator
129 Job Openings