How much does a Machine Technician make?
Machine Technicians play a vital role in many industries, ensuring that machines run smoothly. Their work is important and often gets rewarded with a good salary. On average, a Machine Technician makes around $51,456 a year. This is more than the average for many other jobs.
Different experience levels can lead to varying salaries. Less experienced technicians might start at around $34,803. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. At the higher end, some Machine Technicians earn over $80,000 a year. Other factors, such as location and industry, can also affect earnings. Those in larger cities or specialized fields may find themselves at the higher end of the pay scale.
What are the highest paying cities for a Machine Technician?

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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $66,199
Milwaukee offers a thriving job market for those in the mechanical field. Companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson provide many opportunities. Job seekers can expect a mix of factory work and maintenance tasks.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $56,969
Fort Collins boasts a strong economy with a focus on technology and agriculture. Workers here find jobs with firms like Nestlé Purina and Ball Aerospace. The city offers a range of experiences from installation to troubleshooting.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $55,364
Cleveland’s industrial sector is a hub for technicians. Major employers like Parker-Hannifin and Sherwin-Williams create a demand for skilled professionals. Technicians often handle complex machinery in a dynamic environment.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $54,585
Houston is a center for energy and manufacturing. Companies such as Halliburton and Dow Chemical offer roles that involve advanced machinery. The city’s diverse industry offers many paths for career growth.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $54,530
Minneapolis provides a range of opportunities in both manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like 3M and Medtronic require skilled technicians for their high-tech equipment. The city values continuous learning and skill development.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $54,458
Dayton is known for its aerospace and automotive industries. With companies like General Motors and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, technicians can find varied and rewarding work. The city emphasizes innovation and technical expertise.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $54,228
Louisville offers a blend of traditional and modern industries. Here, technicians can find roles with companies like Yum! Brands and Humana. The city’s diverse economy provides a stable job market.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $53,936
Buffalo’s economy relies on manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like General Electric and Kaleida Health employ many technicians. The city values skilled workers who can maintain and repair advanced machinery.
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Akron, OH
Average Salary: $51,471
Akron’s industrial sector is a key player in manufacturing. Companies like Goodyear Tire and Rubber and BorgWarner offer jobs that involve intricate machinery. Technicians here often work in well-established facilities.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $50,033
Phoenix offers a fast-growing job market in technology and healthcare. Companies like Intel and Banner Health require skilled technicians. The city’s warm climate and expanding industries make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Machine Technician can work for?

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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $67,834
Woodward, Inc. provides automation and control systems. They offer rewarding Machine Technician roles in several states across the United States. Technicians work in locations like Colorado, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
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Olsen Tool & Plastics, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,909
Olsen Tool & Plastics, Inc. specializes in molding and tool making. They hire Machine Technicians to work in their facilities in Illinois and Ohio. Their roles focus on maintaining and operating machinery.
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Rise Technical Recruitment Limited
Average Salary: $59,650
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited offers staffing solutions for technical roles. They have many Machine Technician jobs in the UK. Technicians work in places like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
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Kelly
Average Salary: $57,651
Kelly connects workers with job opportunities across various industries. They have Machine Technician roles in many states. Technicians often work in areas like Texas, California, and Florida.
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Brightview
Average Salary: $55,000
Brightview provides landscaping and horticulture services. They need Machine Technicians for their operations in the United States. Technicians work in places like New York, Ohio, and Florida.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $53,898
Randstad offers staffing and recruitment services. They have Machine Technician jobs in many countries. Technicians work in places like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
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Altium Packaging
Average Salary: $53,165
Altium Packaging provides packaging solutions for businesses. They have Machine Technician jobs in the United States. Technicians work in places like Michigan, Georgia, and South Carolina.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $51,272
Aerotek connects people with jobs in various industries. They have Machine Technician roles in the United States. Technicians work in places like California, Texas, and Illinois.
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PCS Technical Services
Average Salary: $51,073
PCS Technical Services provides engineering and technical services. They have Machine Technician jobs in the United States. Technicians work in places like Colorado, Texas, and Virginia.
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Howmet Aerospace
Average Salary: $47,500
Howmet Aerospace makes aerospace components. They offer Machine Technician roles in the United States. Technicians work in places like Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and New York.
How to earn more as a Machine Technician?
To earn more as a Machine Technician, focus on mastering key areas that can set one apart in the job market. Specialization in certain types of machinery can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Technicians who can work with advanced equipment often find themselves in demand and able to command higher wages. Continuous learning and obtaining certifications for specific machines or systems can greatly enhance earning potential.
Building a strong professional network can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and participating in online forums can connect job seekers with potential employers offering better compensation. Networking also provides the chance to learn about salary trends and negotiate effectively. Employers value technicians who can demonstrate a commitment to their career through professional development and networking efforts.
Experience matters significantly in the field of machine technology. Job seekers should aim to gain as much practical experience as possible. This includes internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions. Gaining hands-on experience helps build a robust resume, making one more attractive to employers willing to offer higher salaries. An experienced technician brings confidence and efficiency to the job, justifying a higher pay grade.
- Specialization in Machinery
- Continuous Learning and Certifications
- Networking and Professional Development
- Gaining Practical Experience
- Seeking Higher Education and Advanced Degrees



