A CNC machinist is a professional who operates computer-controlled machines to produce precision parts and instruments. CNC machinists can earn a good income depending on their experience, qualifications, and skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average CNC machinist salary in the United States was $49,500 per year or $24.72 per hour in 20221. The highest-paid CNC machinists, those in the 10th percentile, earned $90,000 or more per year2.

Some of the factors that can affect the income potential of a CNC machinist are:

Location: The salary of a CNC machinist can vary by state, city, or region. For example, the top-paying states for CNC machinists in 2022 were Hawaii, Alaska, Connecticut, Washington, and Massachusetts.

Employer: The type and size of the employer can also influence the salary of a CNC machinist. For example, CNC machinists working in aerospace product and parts manufacturing earned an average of $58,840 per year in 2022, while those working in machine shops earned an average of $49,270 per year.

Industry: The industry in which a CNC machinist works can also affect their income potential. For example, CNC machinists working in electric power generation, transmission and distribution earned an average of $104,200 per year in 2022, while those working in scheduled air transportation earned an average of $97,290 per year.

Experience: The level of experience and expertise of a CNC machinist can also impact their salary. For example, CNC machinists with more than 10 years of experience in the role can expect to earn higher salaries than those with less experience.

Training: The level of training and education of a CNC machinist can also influence their income potential. For example, CNC machinists who have completed specialized training or certification programs can demonstrate their skills and knowledge and increase their chances of getting hired or promoted.

Compared to other jobs, CNC machinists can have a competitive income potential, especially if they have the right skills and qualifications. However, there are also some challenges and drawbacks of being a CNC machinist, such as:

CNC machinists may have to deal with complex problems, tight deadlines, or high expectations. They have to constantly learn new technologies, techniques, or software.

Job security: Due to resurgence of American Manufacturing CNC machinists are in high demand and ongoing training in the field of technology and automation Can lead to a lifelong lucrative career path of anyone who is will to pursue the expertise.

Therefore, CNC machinists can have a rewarding and lucrative career.

If you are interested in becoming a CNC machinist, you can follow these steps:

1. Complete high school or obtain a GED.
2. Enroll in a vocational or technical program that offers CNC machining courses.
3. Gain hands-on experience through an apprenticeship, internship, or entry-level job.
   Obtain certification from a recognized organization.

All these 3 steps are offered at ASPRA Tech Center.