How much does a Manual Machinist make?
A Manual Machinist can find rewarding opportunities in various industries. This role involves operating machines that shape metal parts. Workers in this field have the potential to earn a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Manual Machinist stands at $57,913. This figure represents the midpoint of a range of earnings, which can vary significantly based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
The salary range for a Manual Machinist can vary widely. At the lower end, those just entering the field may earn around $36,000 per year. As experience and skills grow, so does the potential income. Experienced machinists can earn upwards of $82,500 per year. This range reflects the importance of skill development and professional growth in this career path. Those who continue to improve their skills can expect better compensation over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Manual Machinist?

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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $70,893
In Springfield, working as a Machinist often involves working in manufacturing plants. Key employers include MassMutual and Smith & Wesson. This city offers a community-focused environment with steady job opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $67,624
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for Machinists. Companies like Toyota and Northrop Grumman need skilled workers. Opportunities here are plentiful, with a focus on aerospace and automotive industries.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $66,490
Huntsville, known as 'Rocket City', offers a unique blend of aerospace and defense jobs. Lockheed Martin and Airbus employ many Machinists. This city values technical skills and offers a collaborative work atmosphere.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $65,752
Chicago's manufacturing sector is strong, with many Machinists working for companies like Caterpillar and Boeing. The city offers diverse industries and a robust public transportation system to get around.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $64,624
In Minneapolis, Machinists find work in healthcare and automotive sectors. Companies like 3M and General Mills need skilled technicians. The city offers a high quality of life with a strong community feel.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $62,254
Portland boasts a growing tech industry along with traditional manufacturing. Nike and Columbia Sportswear are among the employers. The city’s culture supports innovation and creativity in the workplace.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $62,022
Jacksonville offers a stable job market with companies like Blount International and General Dynamics. The city’s coastal location provides a relaxed lifestyle while still offering plenty of job opportunities.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $61,643
Tampa’s economy thrives on manufacturing and logistics. Companies like Boeing and Amazon employ many Machinists. The city's warm climate and vibrant nightlife make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $61,500
Knoxville has a strong manufacturing sector with employers such as Eastman Chemical and Volkswagen. The city offers a friendly environment and a lower cost of living, making it ideal for starting a career.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $60,624
Charlotte's booming financial sector also needs Machinists. Companies like Bank of America and Duke Energy offer good job prospects. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and a growing job market.
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What are the best companies a Manual Machinist can work for?

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Barber-Nichols Inc.
Average Salary: $76,308
Barber-Nichols Inc. offers rewarding roles for Manual Machinists. They operate nationwide with locations in Georgia, Colorado, and Arizona. The company values skill and expertise, providing ample opportunities for career growth.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $75,185
Boeing offers competitive salaries for Manual Machinists. They have major operations in Washington, Kansas, and California. Working at Boeing means joining a global leader in aerospace and defense. The company offers a dynamic work environment and chances to work on exciting projects.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $72,143
Paramount Placement offers attractive pay for Manual Machinists. They have locations in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The company provides a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.
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Personnel People
Average Salary: $72,056
Personnel People offers good compensation for Manual Machinists. They operate in multiple states across the U.S. The company focuses on building strong teams and provides a friendly workplace.
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Provisur Technologies
Average Salary: $71,925
Provisur Technologies offers competitive wages for Manual Machinists. They have locations in Virginia and Texas. The company emphasizes teamwork and offers a variety of projects to work on.
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Klein Tools
Average Salary: $70,077
Klein Tools offers solid pay for Manual Machinists. They have offices in Ohio, Illinois, and California. Working at Klein Tools means being part of a company that values quality and craftsmanship.
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Aero Gear Inc
Average Salary: $70,000
Aero Gear Inc. provides good salaries for Manual Machinists. They operate in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. The company values innovation and offers a chance to work in a fast-paced environment.
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Loos & Co.
Average Salary: $69,889
Loos & Co. offers competitive wages for Manual Machinists. They have locations in New York and New Jersey. The company emphasizes collaboration and offers a chance to work on diverse projects.
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ARCH Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $67,983
ARCH Medical Solutions offers decent pay for Manual Machinists. They operate in Florida, California, and Texas. The company focuses on creating medical devices and offers a stable work environment.
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Pioneer Motor Bearing
Average Salary: $67,909
Pioneer Motor Bearing offers good compensation for Manual Machinists. They have locations in Michigan and Indiana. The company emphasizes quality and innovation in their products.
How to earn more as a Manual Machinist?
Increasing earnings as a Manual Machinist involves a mix of skill enhancement, strategic job moves, and effective networking. A skilled Machinist can find opportunities to earn more through various avenues. Focus on these areas to improve your salary prospects.
One key area is gaining certifications in specific machining techniques or tools. Certifications in CNC machining, for example, can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Another factor is gaining experience in specialized industries like aerospace or medical device manufacturing. These industries often offer higher wages due to the complexity of the work. Seeking positions in regions with higher average salaries can also lead to increased earnings. Networking with industry professionals and attending job fairs can reveal better opportunities. Lastly, continuously updating skills and knowledge through training programs can position a Machinist for better-paying roles.
Consider the following factors to enhance earnings:
- Obtain certifications in specialized machining techniques.
- Seek experience in high-demand industries like aerospace or medical devices.
- Explore job opportunities in regions with higher average salaries.
- Network with industry professionals to learn about better opportunities.
- Attend training programs to update skills and knowledge regularly.



