How much does a Machinist make in the United States?
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The average Machinist salary in the United States is $64,438 as of March 01, 2026. The range for our most popular Machinist positions (listed below) typically falls between $36,175 and $92,700. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and 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.
Machinist's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
| Machinist I | $51,311 | $24.67 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Machinist III | $70,708 | $33.99 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Machinist II | $60,119 | $28.90 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Machinist IV | $83,046 | $39.93 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Polishing Machine Operator | $44,355 | $21.32 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Textile Machine Technician | $40,749 | $19.59 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Milling Machine Operator I | $49,612 | $23.85 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
| Milling Machine Operator II | $57,890 | $27.83 | United States | March 01, 2026 |
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Assembles, repairs, and fabricates parts or components for tools or machines by operating mechanical equipment. Reads and interprets blueprints and design sketches to determine the precise specifications, dimensions, and tolerance levels of the finished product. Selects and operates the appropriate tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material. Sets up, services, and maintains equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation. Utilizes precision measuring instruments to check the accuracy and quality of machined parts. Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as necessary. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Machinist I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Entry Machinist, General Machinist I, Machinist I
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Assembles, repairs, and fabricates parts or components for tools or machines by operating mechanical equipment. Reads and interprets blueprints and design sketches to determine the precise specifications, dimensions, and tolerance levels of the finished product. Selects and operates the appropriate tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material. Sets up, services, and maintains equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation. Utilizes precision measuring instruments to check the accuracy and quality of machined parts. Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as necessary. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience. View Machinist III SalaryAlternate Job Titles:General Machinist III, Senior Machinist, Machinist IIICategory : Skilled and Trades
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Assembles, repairs, and fabricates parts or components for tools or machines by operating mechanical equipment. Reads and interprets blueprints and design sketches to determine the precise specifications, dimensions, and tolerance levels of the finished product. Selects and operates the appropriate tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material. Sets up, services, and maintains equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation. Utilizes precision measuring instruments to check the accuracy and quality of machined parts. Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as necessary. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. 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. View Machinist II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:General Machinist II, Intermediate Machinist, Machinist - Experienced, Machinist IICategory : Skilled and Trades
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Assembles, repairs, and fabricates parts or components for tools or machines by operating mechanical equipment. Reads and interprets blueprints and design sketches to determine the precise specifications, dimensions, and tolerance levels of the finished product. Selects and operates the appropriate tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material. Sets up, services, and maintains equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation. Utilizes precision measuring instruments to check the accuracy and quality of machined parts. Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as necessary. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. Typically requires 5-7 years of related experience. View Machinist IV SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Expert Machinist, General Machinist IV, Machinist IV
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Operates polishing or buffing machines to smooth and finish metal, plastic, or glass surfaces according to specifications. Selects and applies appropriate abrasives, compounds, or polishing wheels. Monitors machine performance and makes necessary adjustments to achieve required finish. Inspects parts for defects and ensures adherence to quality standards. Maintains equipment and cleans work areas to ensure safe operations. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Polishing Machine Operator SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Polishing Machine Technician, Polishing Machinist, Polishing Machine Operator
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Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots textile manufacturing machines such as looms, knitting machines, and dyeing equipment. Calibrates machine settings based on fabric types and production specifications. Loads material, ensuring proper placement, positioning, and speed. Monitors output to ensure guides, needles, and rollers are aligned and makes adjustments as necessary. Diagnoses mechanical and electrical issues to minimize downtime and ensure product quality. Conducts preventive maintenance and maintains spare parts inventory. Records all maintenance activities in accordance with plant procedures. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Textile Machine Technician SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Textile Machine Operator, Textile Machinist, Textile Machine Technician
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Operates milling machines to shape raw materials according to blueprints and specifications. Loads and positions workpieces, selects tools, and sets machine parameters. Monitors machining operations and processes for quality, measures finished parts, and ensures conformance to tolerances. Performs routine maintenance such as lubrication and tool replacement. Maintains a safe and organized workspace. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Milling Machine Operator I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Milling Machine Technician I, Milling Machinist I, Milling Machine Operator I
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Operates milling machines to shape raw materials according to blueprints and specifications. Loads and positions workpieces, selects tools, and sets machine parameters. Monitors machining operations and processes for quality, measures finished parts, and ensures conformance to tolerances. Performs routine maintenance such as lubrication and tool replacement. Maintains a safe and organized workspace. Trains or assists junior operators in machining techniques and safety procedures. 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. View Milling Machine Operator II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Milling Machine Technician II, Milling Machinist II, Milling Machine Operator II