How much does a Lathe Operator make?
A Lathe Operator plays a key role in manufacturing and production. These skilled workers use lathe machines to shape and cut metal and other materials. With such an important job, Lathe Operators earn a good income. On average, they make about $48,573 per year. This number can change based on experience, location, and the industry.
Lathe Operators can expect to earn different amounts at different points in their careers. Those just starting might make around $33,000 per year. With a few years of experience, this amount can rise significantly. Experienced Lathe Operators can earn up to $68,000 or more annually. The salary also varies by region, with some areas offering higher wages than others. This career path provides good earning potential for those who master their craft and gain valuable skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Lathe Operator?

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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $57,692
Rochester offers promising opportunities for those skilled in machining. Key companies like Bausch + Lomb and Harris Corporation seek professionals for various roles. With the right experience, a stable job and competitive salary await.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $53,949
In Phoenix, the demand for precision machinists is strong. Companies like Raytheon Technologies and Honeywell International provide numerous positions. Job seekers can expect a dynamic work environment and good career growth.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $50,327
Cincinnati's manufacturing sector thrives with many openings for machinists. Major employers such as Procter & Gamble and GE Appliances offer excellent career paths. Job seekers benefit from a blend of experience and opportunity.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $48,225
Milwaukee's industrial landscape is ripe for skilled machinists. Companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson seek qualified candidates. Professionals enjoy a supportive environment and chances for advancement.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $47,605
Tucson presents a promising market for machinists. Raytheon and General Dynamics offer many openings. Job seekers will find a strong community and diverse work opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $47,558
Houston's booming energy sector creates many job openings for machinists. Companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron require skilled professionals. Job seekers can expect a dynamic environment with growth potential.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $45,921
Grand Rapids offers a thriving market for machinists. Companies such as Amway and Steelcase provide many positions. Job seekers can find a mix of experience and good career prospects.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $45,583
Greensboro's manufacturing industry seeks skilled machinists. Companies like HanesBrands and Volvo offer various opportunities. Job seekers enjoy a supportive community and chances for advancement.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $45,579
Cleveland's industrial sector provides numerous openings for machinists. Companies like Sherwin-Williams and Parker-Hannifin offer good career paths. Job seekers benefit from a robust job market and good salary potential.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $44,420
Minneapolis offers a strong demand for machinists. Companies like 3M and Medtronic seek skilled professionals. Job seekers will find a supportive environment and many opportunities for growth.
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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 jobs with competitive salaries. The company has locations across the U.S. and provides a supportive work environment. They focus on manufacturing precision components for various industries.
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Hall Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,000
Hall Industries, Inc. pays Lathe Operators well. They operate in multiple states with a focus on heavy machinery and precision engineering. The company values skilled workers and offers growth opportunities.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $57,891
Paramount Placement provides Lathe Operator positions with an average salary of $57,891. They have offices nationwide and emphasize teamwork and job satisfaction. Paramount Placement supports continuous learning for its employees.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $51,727
Aerotek offers Lathe Operator jobs with an average salary of $51,727. They have many locations and offer both temporary and permanent positions. Aerotek focuses on providing career advancement opportunities.
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Element Materials Technology
Average Salary: $47,769
Element Materials Technology pays Lathe Operators an average of $47,769. The company operates in various cities and is known for its comprehensive training programs. They focus on quality and innovation in their work.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $46,847
Randstad offers Lathe Operator positions with an average salary of $46,847. They have multiple locations and provide support in finding the right job fit. Randstad is committed to employee development and career growth.
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AWG, Inc.
Average Salary: $46,636
AWG, Inc. pays Lathe Operators an average salary of $46,636. They are located in key areas and focus on manufacturing precision components. The company offers a positive work culture and encourages skill development.
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ARCH Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $45,000
ARCH Medical Solutions provides Lathe Operator jobs with an average salary of $45,000. The company operates in several locations and values teamwork and quality. They focus on medical manufacturing and innovation.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $43,414
Express Employment Professionals offers Lathe Operator positions with an average salary of $43,414. They have offices in many cities and focus on matching skilled workers with suitable roles. The company supports career growth and job satisfaction.
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ResourceMFG
Average Salary: $42,579
ResourceMFG pays Lathe Operators an average salary of $42,579. They have locations across the U.S. and focus on providing precision manufacturing solutions. The company offers a supportive work environment and career advancement opportunities.
How to earn more as a Lathe Operator?
A Lathe Operator can increase their earnings by focusing on several key factors. First, gaining experience helps improve skills and efficiency. As a Lathe Operator becomes more skilled, they can work faster and produce higher quality parts. This often leads to higher pay or more opportunities for overtime.
Second, obtaining additional certifications can open up more job opportunities. Certifications in areas such as CNC machining or precision grinding can make a Lathe Operator more valuable to employers. Third, learning new skills such as programming or computer-aided design (CAD) can also lead to higher-paying positions. Employers often seek operators who can handle multiple tasks, so adding these skills can make someone stand out.
Another important factor is networking. Building connections within the industry can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attending trade shows, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums can help. Finally, seeking out positions in industries that pay more, such as aerospace or medical device manufacturing, can also lead to higher earnings. Staying informed about industry trends and salary benchmarks can help identify the best opportunities.
In summary, earning more as a Lathe Operator involves:
- Gaining experience
- Obtaining certifications
- Learning new skills
- Networking
- Seeking higher-paying positions



