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CNC Programmer, Lead Salary in the United States

How much does a CNC Programmer, Lead make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a CNC Programmer, Lead in the United States is $109,510 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $53.

However, a CNC Programmer, Lead's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $129,340
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $102,820 to $119,890
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $96,729
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence CNC Programmer, Lead Salaries

A CNC Programmer, Lead's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do CNC Programmer, Lead Salaries Vary from State to State?

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:
  • District of Columbia: $121,250.
  • California: $120,790.
  • Massachusetts: $119,180.

Top Paying Cities for CNC Programmer, Leads

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $138,130
  • San Francisco: $136,620
  • Oakland: $133,740

CNC Programmer, Lead Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

CNC Programmer, Lead salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $122,698. While startup companies pay approximate $103,861.

CNC Programmer, Lead Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $103,861
Growth Stage 51~500 $109,806
Established 501~5000 $118,505
Enterprise 5000+ $122,698

CNC Programmer, Lead Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For CNC Programmer, Lead roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the MFG Nondurable and Aerospace & Defense sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, CNC Programmer, Lead positions in Software & Networking or MFG Durable typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view CNC Programmer, Lead as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a CNC Programmer, Lead

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
MFG Nondurable$131,412$63.020%
Aerospace & Defense$120,461$58.010%

CNC Programmer, Lead Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

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 September 01, 2026
$102,820
Average $109,510/year
$119,890
$8,568
Average $9,126/month
$9,991
$1,977
Average $2,106/week
$2,306
$49
Average $53/hour
$58
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $119,890 $9,991 $2,306 $58
Average $109,510 $9,126 $2,106 $53
25th Percentile $102,820 $8,568 $1,977 $49

Most common benefits for CNC Programmer, Lead

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for CNC Programmer, Lead

Here are companies hiring for CNC Programmer, Lead and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about CNC Programmer, Lead

1. What industry pays the highest salary for CNC Programmer, Lead?

The MFG Nondurable industry offers the highest average compensation for CNC Programmer, Lead roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

2. Is there a demand for CNC programmers?

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.

3. What is the maximum salary for a CNC programmer?

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.

4. How much do CNC senior programmers make?

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.

5. Can coders make 300K a year?

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.

6. How much do CNC programmers make at Tesla?

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.

7. What is the highest salary of cnc?

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.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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