How much does a Manual Machinist make?
A Manual Machinist works with metal to create precise parts. Their salary can vary based on experience, location, and the industry they work in. On average, a Manual Machinist makes about $57,064 a year.
Here are some salary details for different experience levels. The lowest 10% earn around $38,000. The top 10% earn over $80,000. Most Machinists fall in the middle, with salaries ranging from $49,455 to $64,727. This field offers good earning potential with more experience and skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Manual Machinist?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $76,326
In Seattle, skilled machinists often work with tech giants like Boeing, offering opportunities to create complex aerospace parts. The city's thriving manufacturing sector provides a dynamic work environment for those in the field.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $71,962
Springfield features prominent companies like Smith & Wesson, where machinists craft precision parts. The area's rich industrial history provides a supportive community for those looking to build their career in manufacturing.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $65,470
Machinists in Los Angeles have access to a variety of industries, from film to aerospace. Working with companies like Boeing and Lockheed Martin, professionals here enjoy a diverse range of projects and career growth.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $65,006
Chicago's industrial sector offers machinists numerous opportunities in manufacturing and heavy industry. Companies such as Caterpillar Inc. provide a stable environment for those skilled in precision machining.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $64,158
In Huntsville, machinists contribute to the aerospace industry with firms like Boeing and NASA. The city's focus on innovation creates a stimulating work environment for those in the field.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $62,414
Denver offers machinists a blend of outdoor living and urban opportunities. Companies like Lockheed Martin provide cutting-edge projects for professionals to work on, along with a growing demand for skilled labor.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $62,122
Indianapolis boasts a strong manufacturing base with companies like Cummins. Machinists here can find stable positions and enjoy a balanced lifestyle with the city's vibrant community.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,012
Minneapolis features a mix of industries for machinists, from aerospace to food processing. With companies like Honeywell, professionals here benefit from a variety of projects and career advancement opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $62,003
Portland's manufacturing sector includes companies like Columbia Sportswear, offering machinists a chance to work on diverse projects. The city's progressive environment supports career growth and innovation.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $60,095
In Jacksonville, machinists play a key role in the defense and aerospace industries, with employers like Northrop Grumman. The city's growing economy provides a solid foundation for career development in the field.
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What are the best companies a Manual Machinist can work for?

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Boeing
Average Salary: $73,390
Boeing offers rewarding opportunities for Manual Machinists. They work on creating and maintaining aircraft parts across many locations. Boeing operates in locations like Seattle, WA, and Charleston, SC.
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Personnel People
Average Salary: $73,383
Personnel People is known for its competitive salaries. They have Manual Machinist roles in multiple sites. This company works in places such as Seattle, WA, and Atlanta, GA.
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Solar Turbines
Average Salary: $72,525
At Solar Turbines, Manual Machinists play a key role. They craft precision parts used in turbine systems. This company operates in locations like Chicago, IL, and San Diego, CA.
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Klein Tools
Average Salary: $70,000
Klein Tools is a top choice for Manual Machinists. They focus on making high-quality tools. This company works in areas such as Cleveland, OH, and Portland, OR.
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Loos & Co.
Average Salary: $69,889
Loos & Co. offers attractive salaries for Manual Machinists. They create custom parts for various industries. They have locations in Sacramento, CA, and New York, NY.
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Provisur Technologies
Average Salary: $69,210
Provisur Technologies values skilled Manual Machinists. They focus on innovative manufacturing processes. Locations include Milwaukee, WI, and Houston, TX.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $66,749
Randstad provides many opportunities for Manual Machinists. They place skilled workers in various industries. Locations include Dallas, TX, and Chicago, IL.
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Element2 Group
Average Salary: $66,284
Element2 Group hires Manual Machinists to work on precision parts. They have several locations including Boston, MA, and San Francisco, CA.
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Acara Solutions
Average Salary: $64,083
Acara Solutions offers roles for Manual Machinists in many industries. They have locations in Raleigh, NC, and Denver, CO.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $62,759
Aerotek provides varied opportunities for Manual Machinists. They place skilled workers in different sectors. Locations include Los Angeles, CA, and Minneapolis, MN.
How to earn more as a Manual Machinist?
Increasing earnings as a Manual Machinist involves focusing on various aspects of skill enhancement and professional development. Employers value machinists who bring a high level of expertise to their roles, which can lead to higher pay. One way to improve earnings is by gaining certifications in specialized machining techniques. These certifications demonstrate proficiency and can open doors to higher-paying positions. Another factor includes gaining experience with advanced machinery. As machinists become skilled in operating sophisticated equipment, their value to companies rises, often leading to salary increases.
Further, continuous education can lead to better opportunities. Attending workshops and courses can keep skills sharp and up-to-date with industry trends. Networking with other professionals also plays a crucial role. Building relationships can lead to job referrals and insider information about higher-paying roles. Lastly, working in industries that demand highly skilled machinists, such as aerospace or medical device manufacturing, can also result in higher salaries. These industries often provide better compensation for the specialized skills required.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Manual Machinist:
- Obtain certifications in specialized machining techniques.
- Gain experience with advanced machinery.
- Continuously educate through workshops and courses.
- Network with other professionals in the industry.
- Work in high-demand industries that value skilled machinists.



