How Much Does a Machining Operator make?

Machining Operator made a median salary around $46,115 in March, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $52,195 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $41,176. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Machining Operator jobs in Norfolk, Virginia

MACHINING OPERATOR

Amsted Rail Company - Petersburg, VA

MACHINING OPERATOR

Amsted Rail Company Inc - Petersburg, VA

CDL-A Owner Operator

Ozark Motor Lines - OWENSBORO, KY

CDL-A Owner Operator

Ozark Motor Lines - BOWLING GREEN, KY

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Best-Paying Cities for Machining Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Machining Operator profession are Merrifield , Mc Lean , Springfield , Annandale , Arlington .
Merrifield, VA $54,486
Mc Lean, VA $54,486
Springfield, VA $54,486
Annandale, VA $54,486
Arlington, VA $54,486

Best-Paying States for Machining Operator

The states and districts that pay Machining Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $54,486) , California (around $53,996) , New Jersey (around $53,654) , Alaska (around $53,311) , and Massachusetts (around $53,262) .
District of Columbia $54,486
California $53,996
New Jersey $53,654
Alaska $53,311
Massachusetts $53,262

What is the Career Path of Machining Operator?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Machining Operator, the first career path typically progresses to Injection Molding Machine Operator III.

The second career path typically starts with a Machine Operator III position , and then progresses to Machine Operator Supervisor.

The third career path typically starts with a Machinist III position , and then progresses to Machine Shop Production Supervisor I.

Additionally, the fourth career path typically starts with a Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator II position , and then progresses to Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator III.

Besides, Machining Operator can also turn to other related jobs, including Machining Technician , Machining Engineer , Precision Machining and Machining Associate .

Frequently Asked Questions for Machining Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Machining Operator in Norfolk, VA?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Machining Operator in Norfolk, VA earned an average annual salary of $41,176 , while the highest-paid made $52,195.
Q: What is the salary for a Machining Operator in California?
A: Machining Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $53,996 in 2025.

Average Machining Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Machining Operator earned an average salary of $46,115 in 2025. Other jobs related to Machining Operator earned the following average salary in March, 2025. Machining Technician made $58,620 , Machining Engineer made $53,134 , Precision Machining and Machining Associate made $42,171 and $46,115 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Machining Operator

Machining Technician - Average Salary $58,620
A Machining Technician is responsible for setting up and operating various types of machinery, such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders, to produce precision parts and components. They interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to determine the specifications for the parts, select the appropriate tools and materials, and use their knowledge of machining processes to ensure the finished products meet quality standards. Machining Technicians also perform routine maintenance on the machines and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the production process. They must have a strong understanding of machining techniques, as well as the ability to work with precision and attention to detail.
Machining Engineer - Average Salary $53,134
There is currently no job description for Machining Engineer, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Machining Engineer.
Precision Machining - Average Salary $42,171
There is currently no job description for Precision Machining, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Precision Machining.
Machining Associate - Average Salary $46,115
There is currently no job description for Machining Associate, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Machining Associate.
Machining Supervisor - Average Salary $85,846
There is currently no job description for Machining Supervisor, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Machining Supervisor.