How much does a Manual Machinist make?
A Manual Machinist works with machines to create metal parts. They use tools like lathes and milling machines. This job pays well, with an average yearly salary of $56,454. This salary can change based on experience and location. Some Manual Machinists earn less, while others earn more.
The salary for a Manual Machinist can vary. The lowest 10% earn about $37,650. The highest 10% earn about $80,000. This shows there is a wide range of earnings. Most Manual Machinists fall in the middle, earning between $45,350 and $56,900. This range gives a good idea of what to expect if you choose this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Manual Machinist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $78,267
In San Jose, skilled machinists work in a tech-driven environment. Companies like Apple and Tesla offer exciting opportunities. The city's strong tech industry provides a dynamic workplace.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,716
Seattle machinists enjoy a vibrant job market. Boeing and other aerospace firms need skilled workers. The city's maritime industry also offers steady employment.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $70,269
Springfield machinists find work in manufacturing and defense industries. Companies like Smith & Wesson and MassMutual offer stable jobs. The city's rich industrial history provides a strong job market.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $65,470
Los Angeles machinists work in a diverse job market. The entertainment industry and aerospace sector offer many opportunities. Skilled workers find jobs with companies like Northrop Grumman and various film studios.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $65,156
In Huntsville, machinists are in demand for aerospace and defense jobs. Companies like NASA and various defense contractors offer exciting career paths. The city's focus on technology and aerospace creates a dynamic job market.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $64,306
Chicago machinists benefit from a strong manufacturing base. Companies like Caterpillar and various automotive firms offer many job opportunities. The city's diverse industries provide a stable job market.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $62,529
In Salem, machinists find work in manufacturing and government sectors. Companies like Salem Health and various state agencies offer stable jobs. The city's moderate climate and growing industries make it a good place to work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $61,514
Portland machinists enjoy a vibrant job market with many opportunities. Companies like Nike and various tech firms offer diverse career paths. The city's focus on sustainability and innovation provides a dynamic workplace.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $61,215
Minneapolis machinists work in a diverse job market. Companies like 3M and Medtronic offer many opportunities. The city's strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors provide a stable job market.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $59,956
In Denver, machinists find work in aerospace and technology sectors. Companies like Lockheed Martin and various tech firms offer exciting career paths. The city's growing industries and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Manual Machinist can work for?

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Leidos
Average Salary: $79,540
Leidos offers rewarding Manual Machinist jobs with a focus on aerospace and defense. They operate in various locations, including Virginia, Maryland, and California. Employees enjoy competitive salaries and benefits.
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Solar Turbines
Average Salary: $73,591
Solar Turbines provides excellent opportunities for Manual Machinists in the energy sector. They have facilities in California and Illinois. The company values skilled machinists and offers a supportive work environment.
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Personnel People
Average Salary: $73,176
Personnel People offers diverse Manual Machinist positions across various industries. They operate in multiple states, including Texas and Florida. The company emphasizes career growth and offers attractive compensation packages.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $70,287
Boeing is a leading aerospace company with numerous Manual Machinist jobs. They have major facilities in Washington and California. Boeing provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development.
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Loos & Co.
Average Salary: $70,000
Loos & Co. offers Manual Machinist positions with a focus on precision manufacturing. They operate in Ohio and Michigan. The company values skilled machinists and offers a competitive salary and benefits.
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Acara Solutions
Average Salary: $68,632
Acara Solutions provides Manual Machinist jobs in the aerospace and defense sectors. They have locations in California and Texas. The company offers a collaborative work environment and competitive compensation.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $66,555
Amentum offers Manual Machinist positions with a focus on government contracts. They operate in various states, including Virginia and Colorado. The company provides a stable work environment and attractive benefits.
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Element2 Group
Average Salary: $66,284
Element2 Group offers Manual Machinist jobs in the aerospace and defense sectors. They have facilities in California and Texas. The company values skilled machinists and offers a supportive work environment.
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Klein Tools
Average Salary: $65,791
Klein Tools provides Manual Machinist positions with a focus on manufacturing tools. They operate in California and Illinois. The company offers a competitive salary and benefits, along with career growth opportunities.
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Provisur Technologies
Average Salary: $64,575
Provisur Technologies offers Manual Machinist jobs in the aerospace and defense sectors. They have locations in California and Texas. The company values skilled machinists and offers a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Manual Machinist?
A Manual Machinist can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in specialized machining techniques can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Employers often value machinists who can perform complex tasks with precision, which can result in increased compensation. Additionally, obtaining certifications in areas such as CNC machining or welding can enhance a machinist's skill set and make them more attractive to potential employers.
Networking and building relationships within the industry can also lead to higher-paying positions. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other professionals can open doors to new job opportunities. Seeking out mentorship from experienced machinists can also provide valuable insights and guidance on career advancement. Furthermore, staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies can make a machinist more competitive in the job market and command higher salaries. By focusing on these factors, a Manual Machinist can increase their earning potential and advance their career.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Manual Machinist:
- Specialized Skills: Gaining expertise in specialized machining techniques can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas such as CNC machining or welding can enhance a machinist's skill set and make them more attractive to potential employers.
- Networking: Building relationships within the industry can open doors to new job opportunities.
- Mentorship: Seeking out mentorship from experienced machinists can provide valuable insights and guidance on career advancement.
- Industry Trends: Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies can make a machinist more competitive in the job market and command higher salaries.



