How much does a CNC machine operator make?
a year · about $24 an hour
A typical CNC machine operator in the United States makes $50,690 a year, about $24 an hour, about the same as a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
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.
Did you know? CNC operators may listen for a dull cutting tool or strong vibration, then adjust the machine to fix the problem.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $38,140 and $73,890How do you become one?
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.
School needed: High school plus some training
Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized
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.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in Washington ($107,920), lowest in Mississippi ($39,520).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| 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 |
Official definition: 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.
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