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Machinist salary
Machinists set up and operate machine tools to produce precision metal parts.
Median annual
$52,000
Median hourly
$25
Top 10% earn
$74,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$38,000
Median$52,000
Top 10%$74,000
Machinist salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $41,400 | $20 | -20% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $47,300 | $23 | -9% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $55,100 | $26 | +6% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $66,600 | $32 | +28% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified machinists, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
High school diploma plus apprenticeship or technical training.
Job outlook
2% growth through 2033 — CNC skills in demand.
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