Cnc Machinists Salary: Key Factors and Expectations

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The salary of a CNC machinist can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry, but it is generally seen as a well-compensated profession. According to Indeed, the average hourly wage for a CNC machinist in the United States stands at $24.58, with a range of $17.83 to $33.89. This wage is influenced by factors such as geographic location, the specific skills required for a particular job, and the level of education and experience held by the machinist.

One of the primary contributing factors to this wage range can be industry demand. CNC machinists are essential in several diverse industries, like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, which require precision engineering and the manufacturing of complex parts. These industries rely heavily on the expertise of skilled CNC machinists who are capable of producing high-quality, accurate components. As a result, competition for these skilled professionals can drive up wages in areas where demand is greater. Furthermore, specialized industry certifications can also influence salaries for CNC machinists as additional qualifications can lead to increased earning potential.

cnc machinists salary

In addition to the base salary, CNC machinists can also benefit from other forms of compensation, like profit sharing and non-cash benefits such as 401(k) plans. According to Glassdoor, the median total pay for a CNC machinist in the United States, including additional benefits, is $46,975 per year, with a base salary of $42,158. These extra benefits can improve the overall compensation package and attractiveness of this profession for those considering a career as a CNC machinist.

Overview of CNC Machinist Salary

Average Salary

CNC Machinists in the United States can expect to earn an average salary of $49,482 per year. However, the salary range varies widely from state to state, with the average salary being $46,224 a year according to ZipRecruiter. Glassdoor provides a slightly higher estimate, reporting that the median total pay for CNC Machinists is approximately $52,643 per year.

Base Pay

Indeed reports that the average base salary for a CNC Machinist in the United States is $24.58 per hour, which amounts to around $42,151 per year based on a 40-hour workweek. The base pay varies depending on factors such as experience level, geographic location, and the specific industry in which the CNC Machinist works.

Salary distribution according to ZipRecruiter:

  • $25,500 – $28,999: 1% of jobs
  • $29,000 – $32,499: 4% of jobs
  • $32,500 – $35,999: 8% of jobs
  • $38,500 is the 25th percentile (salaries below this are outliers)
  • $36,000 – $39,499: 13% of jobs
  • $39,500 – $42,999: 15% of jobs
  • $43,000 – $46,499: 14% of jobs

Additional Cash Compensation

In addition to their base pay, CNC Machinists can also earn additional cash compensation through benefits such as overtime pay, bonuses, and profit sharing. Glassdoor estimates that the average additional cash compensation for CNC Machinists is around $4,820 per year. This extra income can significantly impact the total annual compensation received by these skilled professionals.

Factors Affecting CNC Machinist Salary

Location

The salary of a CNC machinist can vary significantly depending on the location where they work. For example, in the United Kingdom, salaries can range widely based on factors such as the region, department, and other variables. In areas such as Derby and Pudsey, a CNC machinist’s salary can differ due to regional cost of living differences and the local job market.

cnc machinists salary

Experience

A CNC machinist’s experience plays a crucial role in determining their salary. Typically, those with more experience in operating CNC milling machines, lathes, and manual lathes can expect higher salaries. As individuals gain experience in working with various materials like stainless steel, milling, and turning, their expertise grows, contributing to increased earning potential.

Skills and Qualifications

In addition to experience, the skills and qualifications a CNC machinist possesses can influence their salary. A CNC machinist who has completed an apprenticeship program may command a higher salary than those without formal training. Additionally, certifications and advanced education in CNC machining can further increase a machinist’s earning potential.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is an essential skill for a CNC machinist, as it ensures precision and accuracy in their job. Machinists who demonstrate a strong ability to maintain attention to detail are more likely to receive higher salaries, as their work produces high-quality results that are less prone to errors.

Problem Solving

CNC machinists who excel in problem-solving are valuable to employers, as they can quickly identify and address issues that may arise during the machining process. Those with strong problem-solving abilities can command higher salaries, as their skills help minimize production downtime and maintain efficiency on the shop floor.

CNC Machinist Salary in the UK

Regional Differences

CNC Machinist salaries in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including location. For example, the average salary for a CNC Machinist in London is £34,806, which may be different from other regions in the UK. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that living expenses in London tend to be higher than in other areas.

Some of the factors that may influence regional salary differences include:

  • Cost of living in different regions
  • Demand for skilled workers in various industries
  • The presence of companies that offer competitive salaries to attract and retain talent

Elevation Recruitment Group

Elevation Recruitment Group is a reputable employment agency in the UK, helping place CNC Machinists in various organizations. Although specific salary figures for this agency were not found, it’s worth noting that average CNC Machinist salaries in the UK are around £14.76 per hour. Some top companies for CNC Machinists in the United Kingdom include Mane Contract Services Limited, which offers an average hourly wage of £16.48, and Hales Group Ltd, with an average hourly wage of £15.42.

It’s important for CNC Machinists to consider such factors as:

  • The type of industry they work in
  • Their level of experience and qualifications
  • Opportunities for professional development and career progression

In conclusion, CNC Machinist salaries in the UK depend on several factors, including location and the specific employer. Elevation Recruitment Group is a resource for professionals to find job opportunities and navigate the competitive job market.

Career Growth and Job Opportunities

Manufacturing Sector

CNC machinists are essential to the manufacturing sector as they operate computer numerically controlled machine tools to produce high-precision metal parts and components. As the manufacturing industry continues to grow and incorporate advanced technology, skilled CNC machinists are in high demand. Employers in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics, seek experienced machinists to fulfill their production needs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for machinists was $47,730 in May 2021. Some companies may offer higher salaries for those with advanced skills and specialized experience in their specific sector.

Job Trends

CNC machinists have job opportunities across a wide range of industries and locations. While the overall employment of machinists is projected to show little or no change from 2021 to 2031, it’s essential to consider the factors affecting job growth.

The expansion of computer numerical control technology and the need for custom-made parts in specialized industries will continue to create job opportunities for skilled CNC machinists. Areas of high demand may offer more competitive salaries.

Here’s a breakdown of the median annual salary for CNC machinists based on years of experience:

Years of ExperienceMedian Annual Salary (USD)
0-4Entry-level $26,476
5-9Mid-career $38,698
10-19Experienced $42,156
20+Late-career $43,238

It’s worth noting that earning professional certifications, such as the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Credential, can significantly enhance your professional status and increase your employment opportunities, potentially leading to higher pay.

In conclusion, CNC machinists have various career growth opportunities, especially in the manufacturing sector. By obtaining advanced skills, industry-specific experience, and professional certifications, CNC machinists can improve their job prospects and secure higher salaries. Stay informed about the latest market trends and continually enhance your skillset to make yourself an invaluable asset in the manufacturing industry.

cnc machinists salary

Salary Estimates from Glassdoor

Glassdoor provides salary estimates for CNC Machinists based on data collected from users in the United States. The estimated total pay for a CNC Machinist is $52,643 per year, with an average salary of $47,390 per year. On top of that, the estimated additional pay is $5,253 per year.

These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from Glassdoor’s proprietary Total Pay Estimate model. It’s important to note that actual salaries may vary depending on factors, such as location, experience, or the specific company a CNC Machinist works for.

In comparison, another Glassdoor report provides an estimated total pay of $46,975 per year for a CNC Machinist in the United States area. The average salary in this report is $42,158 per year, with an estimated additional pay of $4,817 per year.

Salary information from Indeed indicates that the average hourly wage for a CNC Machinist in the United States is $24.58. This data is based on 44k salaries reported and updated as of May 11, 2023.