As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a CNC Programmer, Lead in the United States is $119,400 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $57.
However, a CNC Programmer, Lead's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A CNC Programmer, Lead'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 and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a CNC Programmer, Lead'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 Programmer, Entry | 0-2 years | $63,388 |
| CNC Programmer, Experienced | 2-4 years | $72,334 |
| CNC Programmer, Senior | 4-7 years | $85,237 |
| CNC Programmer, Lead | 7+ years | $119,400 |
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 Programmer, Leads. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a CNC Programmer, Lead'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 March 01, 2026Salaries for a CNC Programmer, Lead can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $109,164 in 2023 to around $103,899 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of CNC Programmer, Lead salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $109,164 |
| 2024 | $105,949 |
| 2025 | $103,899 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Yes, there is a strong demand for CNC programmers in today's job market. Precision-engineered metalwork is essential across various industries, including defense, aerospace, consumer goods, and medical equipment. With salaries ranging from $113,010 to $143,340, this profession offers competitive compensation, reflecting its importance and the skills required.
The maximum salary for a CNC Programmer is $143,340 per year. The salary range typically starts at a minimum of $113,010 and averages around $132,530.
As of January 01, 2025, CNC Programmers, Lead can expect to earn between $113,010 and $143,340 annually, with a median salary of $132,530. This reflects a competitive salary range for skilled professionals in the field.
While the average salary for a CNC Programmer, Lead is around $132,530, top earners can make up to $143,340. Achieving a salary of $300K is unlikely in this field, but with specialized skills and experience, significant earnings are possible. Focus on enhancing your expertise to maximize your salary potential.
CNC Programmers at Tesla earn a salary range from $113,010 to $143,340, with a median salary of $132,530. This reflects competitive compensation in the industry, aligning with the skills and expertise required for the role.
The highest salary for a CNC Programmer, Lead is approximately $143,340 per year. The average salary typically ranges from a minimum of $113,010 to a midpoint of $132,530, reflecting the experience and skill level in the field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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