As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a CNC Laser Machine Operator II in the United States is $62,800 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.
However, a CNC Laser Machine Operator II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A CNC Laser Machine Operator II's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a CNC Laser Machine Operator II's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| CNC Laser Machine Operator I | 1-3 years | $49,518 |
| CNC Laser Machine Operator II | 3-5 years | $62,715 |
| CNC Laser Machine Operator III | 5-7 years | $71,319 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract CNC Laser Machine Operator IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 1.78% |
| Preventative Maintenance | 1.3% |
| Preventive Maintenance | 0.98% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Initiative
|
$65,312 |
4%
|
|
Written Communication
|
$64,684 |
3%
|
|
Lean
|
$64,056 |
2%
|
|
Visual Inspection
|
$63,428 |
1%
|
|
CAD
|
$63,428 |
1%
|
|
Problem Solving
|
$63,428 |
1%
|
CNC Laser Machine Operator II salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $70,248. While startup companies pay approximate $59,498.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $59,498 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $62,899 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $67,863 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $70,248 |
For CNC Laser Machine Operator II roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 80% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Aerospace & Defense sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 40% above the average. In contrast, CNC Laser Machine Operator positions in Retail & Wholesale or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view CNC Laser Machine Operator II as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $87,920 | $42.0 | 40% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $81,640 | $39.0 | 30% |
| Energy & Utilities | $72,220 | $35.0 | 15% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many CNC Laser Machine Operator IIs enter the field with a Associate's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a CNC Laser Machine Operator II with a Associate's Degree is between $57,784 and $62,430).
CNC Laser Machine Operator II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.1% |
| High School | 76.1% |
| Associates | 19.3% |
| Bachelors | 2.3% |
| Masters | 1.1% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a CNC Laser Machine Operator II's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a CNC Laser Machine Operator II, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Machine Operator IV | $55,500 | -12% |
| Expert Machinist | $73,400 | 17% |
| CNC Laser Machine Operator III | $71,400 | 14% |
| Packing Line Operations Supervisor | $84,500 | 35% |
Salaries for a CNC Laser Machine Operator II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $47,491 in 2023 to around $47,039 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of CNC Laser Machine Operator II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $47,491 |
| 2024 | $47,355 |
| 2025 | $47,039 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for CNC Laser Machine Operator II roles, with salaries approximately 40% above the market median.
The salary for a CNC Laser Machine Operator typically ranges from $58,800 to $76,100 per year, with a mid-range salary of about $66,600. This reflects the specialized skills and responsibilities associated with operating CNC laser machinery.
The demand for CNC Laser Machine Operators is at an all-time high, fueled by the resurgence of manufacturing, technological advancements, and industry diversification. With salaries ranging from $58,800 to $76,100, this role offers competitive compensation, reflecting the growing need for skilled operators in various sectors.
The highest paying machine operator job is the CNC Laser Machine Operator, with a salary range of $58,800 to $76,100 per year. This position offers competitive pay, with a mid-salary of $66,600, making it a lucrative option in the manufacturing sector. Other high-paying roles include CMM Programmer and CNC Machinist, but CNC Laser Operators lead the pack.
Yes, a well-run, well-equipped laser cutting business has very high-profit potential. With CNC Laser Machine Operators earning between $58,800 and $76,100 annually, the financial rewards can be significant. Staying at the technical leading edge and aggressively marketing is essential to maintain a competitive position.
Yes, you can make money with a laser machine. By selling laser-engraved and cut products, you can tap into a lucrative market for personalized items. CNC Laser Machine Operators earn between $58,800 and $76,100 annually, with a median salary of $66,600, making it a viable option for generating income through unique creations.
The highest salary that a CNC Laser Machine Operator can earn is ?76,100 per year. In India, top-paying industries for CNC Operators typically include manufacturing and aerospace, while cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Chennai often offer the best compensation packages.
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