How much does a Lathe Operator make?
Lathe operators play a vital role in manufacturing by running and maintaining lathe machines. These professionals ensure products meet quality standards and specifications. The job pays well, offering a stable career for those interested in precision and machinery.
According to recent data, the salary for lathe operators varies. The lowest earners make about $33,353 a year. Meanwhile, the highest earners can make up to $68,140 annually. On average, a lathe operator earns around $48,917 per year. These figures reflect the range of salaries available based on experience and location.
Here are the salary ranges for different experience levels:
- 10th percentile: $33,353
- 25th percentile: $36,515
- 50th percentile (median): $42,840
- 75th percentile: $52,328
- 90th percentile: $61,815
What are the highest paying cities for a Lathe Operator?

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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $57,208
In Rochester, one can find a thriving manufacturing sector that offers opportunities for skilled machinists. Companies like Bausch + Lomb and Eastman Kodak provide a variety of roles for those with the right expertise. The city's strong industrial roots mean job security and growth potential for dedicated operators.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $54,657
Phoenix boasts a dynamic job market for machinists, with prominent employers like Honeywell and Raytheon seeking skilled professionals. The city’s warm climate and low cost of living make it an attractive place to work, providing a good balance of professional opportunities and lifestyle.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $50,327
Cincinnati is a hub for manufacturing and offers many opportunities for those in the machining field. Companies such as GE Appliances and Boeing provide solid career paths and benefits for experienced machinists. The city’s commitment to industry keeps the demand high for skilled workers.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $48,227
Grand Rapids is known for its rich manufacturing tradition, with companies like Amway and SpartanNash offering various roles for machinists. The city’s dedication to industrial excellence makes it a promising place for career growth and stability in the machining sector.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $48,225
Milwaukee has a robust manufacturing industry, providing plenty of job opportunities for machinists. Companies like MillerCoors and Johnson Controls employ skilled machinists. The city’s strong industrial presence ensures a steady demand for qualified professionals.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $47,910
Houston’s booming energy sector creates many opportunities for machinists. Companies such as ExxonMobil and Schlumberger hire skilled operators. The city’s diverse job market offers various roles and good compensation for experienced machinists.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $46,186
Tulsa offers a mix of manufacturing and oil industry jobs for machinists. Companies like ConocoPhillips and ONEOK provide many opportunities. The city’s economic diversity ensures a stable demand for qualified machinists.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $45,583
Greensboro’s manufacturing scene is vibrant, with companies like Volvo and Hanesbrands looking for skilled machinists. The city offers a supportive environment for career growth and a good quality of life for professionals in this field.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $45,394
Cleveland’s industrial landscape provides numerous roles for machinists. Companies such as Parker Hannifin and Sherwin-Williams offer good opportunities. The city’s strong industrial base ensures a steady demand for skilled machinists.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $45,309
Minneapolis is a center for manufacturing, with firms like 3M and Cargill offering various roles for machinists. The city’s supportive work environment and high standard of living make it an appealing place for professionals in this field.
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What are the best companies a Lathe Operator can work for?

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Advantech Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,000
Advantech Industries, Inc. offers Lathe Operator roles with a competitive salary of $60,000. This company operates in various locations nationwide, providing opportunities for Lathe Operators to work in modern facilities.
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Hall Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,000
Hall Industries, Inc. also provides a salary of $60,000 for Lathe Operators. They have multiple locations across the country. Their facilities emphasize safety and advanced manufacturing technology.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $57,903
Paramount Placement offers a salary of $57,903 for Lathe Operators. The company has several locations, ensuring a variety of opportunities. They focus on career growth and support for their employees.
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Element Materials Technology
Average Salary: $47,769
Element Materials Technology provides an average salary of $47,769 for Lathe Operators. With offices in multiple states, this company offers diverse locations for potential Lathe Operator positions.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $46,581
Randstad offers a salary of $46,581 for Lathe Operators. They have offices throughout the country, providing numerous job openings. Randstad focuses on employee development and career advancement.
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ARCH Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $46,082
ARCH Medical Solutions offers a salary of $46,082 for Lathe Operators. Their facilities are spread across different locations, offering various opportunities for growth in the field.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $43,984
Express Employment Professionals provides a salary of $43,984 for Lathe Operators. With many locations, they offer diverse job opportunities. The company values employee satisfaction and career progression.
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ResourceMFG
Average Salary: $42,094
ResourceMFG offers a salary of $42,094 for Lathe Operators. They have several locations that provide various job opportunities. This company is committed to employee training and development.
How to earn more as a Lathe Operator?
Lathe operators play a crucial role in manufacturing. They use machines to make metal or wood parts. To earn more as a lathe operator, focus on the following key areas. Improving skills leads to better opportunities and higher pay.
Gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Start with entry-level positions and learn from skilled colleagues. Over time, this experience can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Experience also makes it easier to handle complex tasks and troubleshoot problems quickly.
- Certification: Earn certifications to boost pay. These show employers that a lathe operator has the skills they need.
- Advanced Skills: Learn to use different types of lathes. This can make a lathe operator more valuable.
- Night and Weekend Shifts: Working these times can lead to higher pay. Many companies offer shift differentials for these hours.
- Specialized Industries: Work in high-demand areas like aerospace or medical devices. These industries often pay more.
- Continued Education: Take courses to stay current with new technologies. This can lead to higher positions and better pay.



