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How much does a Lathe Operator make?

The average salary for a Lathe Operator is $48,364 per year in the US.

A Lathe Operator plays a key role in manufacturing, using machines to shape metal or wood. This job offers a stable career with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Lathe Operator is around $48,364. This means that most people in this job earn between $33,000 and $70,000 each year.

The salary can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn higher salaries. For example, operators with 10-19 years of experience earn an average of $59,909 per year. People in certain areas, like those with higher living costs, may also see higher pay. This job offers good earning potential and opportunities for growth.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Lathe Operator?

Lathe operators in Rochester, NY, enjoy some of the highest salaries in the country, averaging around $57,712 per year. Phoenix, AZ, and Cincinnati, OH, also offer competitive wages for this skilled profession, with average salaries of $53,194 and $52,023, respectively. Job seekers looking for lucrative opportunities in this field may find these cities particularly attractive.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Lathe Operator jobs, highlighting Rochester, NY with the highest at $57,712 and Greensboro, NC with the lowest at $45,462.
  1. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $57,712
    Rochester offers a thriving manufacturing sector with many opportunities for skilled machinists. Companies like Bausch + Lomb and Eastman Kodak provide stable environments. Workers benefit from a mix of traditional and modern machining techniques.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Rochester, NY


  2. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $53,194
    Phoenix has a growing demand for precision machinists. The city's aerospace industry is a major employer. Workers here enjoy a mix of high-tech and traditional machining roles.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  3. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $52,023
    Cincinnati is known for its strong manufacturing base. Companies like GE Appliances and Kroger offer diverse roles. The city provides a good balance of job stability and career growth.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Cincinnati, OH


  4. Rockford, IL
    Average Salary: $47,486
    Rockford has a rich history in manufacturing. The city is home to companies like Rockford Corp. and Oshkosh Corporation. Workers here find a supportive community with many opportunities for advancement.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Rockford, IL


  5. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $47,338
    Tucson offers a dynamic job market for machinists. The presence of companies like Raytheon and Freeport-McMoRan creates diverse opportunities. The city's growing tech sector also adds to the demand for skilled machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  6. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $46,515
    Milwaukee has a strong manufacturing tradition. Companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson provide excellent career paths. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern machining roles.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI


  7. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $46,200
    Houston's energy sector drives the demand for skilled machinists. Companies like Halliburton and Baker Hughes offer many opportunities. The city's diverse economy ensures a steady need for precision machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Houston, TX


  8. Cleveland, OH
    Average Salary: $45,696
    Cleveland's manufacturing industry is robust. Companies like Parker Hannifin and Sherwin-Williams provide stable jobs. The city offers a mix of traditional and high-tech machining roles.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Cleveland, OH


  9. Grand Rapids, MI
    Average Salary: $45,673
    Grand Rapids is known for its thriving manufacturing sector. Companies like Amway and Steelcase offer diverse opportunities. The city provides a supportive environment for career growth.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Grand Rapids, MI


  10. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $45,462
    Greensboro has a strong manufacturing base. Companies like Hanesbrands and Volvo offer many opportunities. The city's growing tech sector also adds to the demand for skilled machinists.
    Find Lathe Operator jobs in Greensboro, NC

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

Advantech Industries, Inc. and Hall Industries, Inc. offer top salaries for Lathe Operators, averaging around $60,000 annually. These companies value skilled workers and provide competitive pay. Eaton and Aerotek also offer attractive salaries, with averages around $54,000 and $51,000, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Lathe Operator jobs, highlighting Advantech Industries, Inc. with the highest at $60,000 and Precision Edge Surgical Products with the lowest at $45,800.
  1. Advantech Industries, Inc.
    Average Salary: $60,000
    Advantech Industries, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Lathe Operators. They have locations in California and Texas. The company focuses on precision manufacturing and provides a stable work environment.


  2. Hall Industries, Inc.
    Average Salary: $60,000
    Hall Industries, Inc. also pays Lathe Operators well, with an average salary of $60,000. They operate in Ohio and Michigan. The company is known for its commitment to quality and employee development.


  3. Paramount Placement
    Average Salary: $57,581
    Paramount Placement offers Lathe Operators an average salary of $57,581. They have offices in New York and New Jersey. The company emphasizes career growth and offers various training programs.


  4. Eaton
    Average Salary: $54,000
    Eaton provides a good salary for Lathe Operators, averaging $54,000. They are located in several states, including Ohio and Pennsylvania. The company is recognized for its innovative approach to manufacturing.


  5. Aerotek
    Average Salary: $51,389
    Aerotek offers Lathe Operators an average salary of $51,389. They have offices across the United States. The company focuses on connecting skilled workers with top employers.


  6. PrideStaff
    Average Salary: $50,104
    PrideStaff pays Lathe Operators an average of $50,104. They operate in multiple locations nationwide. The company is known for its personalized approach and strong industry connections.


  7. Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc
    Average Salary: $48,844
    Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc. offers Lathe Operators an average salary of $48,844. They are located in Ohio. The company specializes in precision instruments and values skilled craftsmanship.


  8. Randstad
    Average Salary: $48,670
    Randstad provides Lathe Operators with an average salary of $48,670. They have offices in many states. The company is known for its extensive network and support for career advancement.


  9. Manpower
    Average Salary: $48,304
    Manpower offers Lathe Operators an average salary of $48,304. They operate in numerous locations across the country. The company is recognized for its commitment to workforce development.


  10. Precision Edge Surgical Products
    Average Salary: $45,800
    Precision Edge Surgical Products pays Lathe Operators an average of $45,800. They are located in Ohio. The company specializes in medical device manufacturing and values precision and quality.

How to earn more as a Lathe Operator?

Becoming a skilled Lathe Operator opens up many opportunities for earning more. Employers value experience and expertise, and these can lead to higher pay. Focusing on certain areas can help increase earnings. One key factor is gaining more experience. The more time spent working with lathes, the more skilled an operator becomes. This experience often leads to higher-paying positions.

Another important factor is obtaining certifications. Many employers prefer or require certifications in CNC machining or similar areas. These certifications show a higher level of skill and knowledge. They can make an operator more attractive to potential employers. Continuing education and training can also lead to better job opportunities. This includes attending workshops and seminars. These can help keep skills up to date and improve efficiency. Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to higher-paying jobs. Building a strong professional network can provide information about job openings and industry trends. Finally, seeking out positions in industries that pay more, such as aerospace or medical device manufacturing, can also increase earnings.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Lathe Operator:

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Obtain relevant certifications
  3. Continue education and training
  4. Build a strong professional network
  5. Seek out higher-paying industries

Currently 123 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
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Lathe Operator
123 Job Openings