How much does a cnc machine operator make?
Answer: A typical cnc machine operator in the United States makes $50,690 a year (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Line up 100 people; this is the one in the middle (median). about 169,000 people work in this job. About the same as the US-wide typical pay ($50,980).
If 100 people had this job
Lowest at bottom-left, highest at top-rightHover over a person to see their yearly pay
CNC machine operator pay in the United States (May 2025, median and spread)
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $38,140 | $50,690 | $73,890 | about 169,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $107,920 | about 2,000 |
| Massachusetts | $61,630 | about 3,000 |
| Connecticut | $59,840 | about 3,000 |
| New Hampshire | $59,730 | about 2,000 |
| Vermont | $57,500 | about 1,000 |
Why does pay differ?
In the U.S., experience, optional CNC certificates, and advanced skills such as setup or programming can affect pay. Pay also varies by employer and industry, location, and night or weekend shifts and overtime. This job usually rewards technical skill, not public fame.
What if you lived in a different state?
Pay varies a lot by state in the USTop 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
What does a cnc machine operator do?
Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
What's a typical day like?
They read a blueprint, secure material and tools in a CNC machine, then start the programmed cut. They watch the controls, listen for odd sounds, and measure finished pieces to check they match the plan.
How to get this job
In the U.S., finish high school; math, blueprint reading, and metalworking help, then learn on the job, at a technical school, or through an employer apprenticeship. Optional CNC certificates can show your skills.
High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)
Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.
Did you know?
CNC operators may listen for a dull cutting tool or strong vibration, then adjust the machine to fix the problem.
Similar jobs
Jobs using similar skills (O*NET)Earn more in the same field
Production jobs that pay a bit moreSources and data
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/ooh/production/machinists-and-tool-and-die-makers.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/summary/51-9161.00
- www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes519161.htm
- www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/wage-differences.htm
- www.energy.gov/cmei/fuels/career-map-computer-numerical-control-cnc-operator
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY