As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a CNC Machine Operator I in the United States is $49,489 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, a CNC Machine Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A CNC Machine Operator I'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 Machine Operator I'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level CNC Machine Operator I | $49,125 |
| Intermediate Level CNC Machine Operator I | $50,028 |
| Senior Level CNC Machine Operator I | $50,797 |
| Specialist Level CNC Machine Operator I | $51,028 |
| Expert Level CNC Machine Operator I | $51,182 |
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 Machine Operator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 1.81% |
| Machine Controls | 1.31% |
| Preventive Maintenance | 1.02% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Collaboration
|
$51,469 |
4%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$51,469 |
4%
|
|
CAD
|
$51,469 |
4%
|
|
Programming
|
$50,974 |
3%
|
|
Welding
|
$50,974 |
3%
|
|
Scheduling
|
$50,974 |
3%
|
Understanding how a CNC Machine Operator I'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a CNC Machine Operator I, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Injection Molding Machine Operator III | $56,590 | 14% |
| Machine Operator III | $51,565 | 4% |
| Machinist III | $65,637 | 33% |
| CNC Machine Operator II | $62,621 | 27% |
Salaries for a CNC Machine Operator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $42,067 in 2023 to around $42,104 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of CNC Machine Operator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $42,067 |
| 2024 | $42,218 |
| 2025 | $42,104 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
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|
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current CNC Machine Operator I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A CNC Machine Operator I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a CNC Machine Operator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a CNC Machine Operator I is $62,420.
The highest pay for CNC Machine Operator I is $59,339.
The lowest pay for CNC Machine Operator I is $40,183.
Responsible for operating one or more types of computer numeric controlled production equipment. Selects appropriate settings and makes adjustments as necessary. Follows established quality and safety standards. Typically requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
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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