Machinists

SOC code 51-4041 · O*NET-SOC 51-4041.00 · Medium preparation needed · Manufacturing and production

Machinists pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$58,750

a year

Hourly

$28.24

per hour

10th$39,200Median$58,75090th$80,010

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$59,320

$28.52 per hour

Middle 50%

$47,570 – $67,700

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$39,200 – $80,010

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

287,050

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $39,200; $18.85/hr
25th percentile: $47,570; $22.87/hr
Median percentile: $58,750; $28.24/hr
75th percentile: $67,700; $32.55/hr
90th percentile: $80,010; $38.47/hr

What does a machinist do?

Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.

How to become a machinist

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 36% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)36%
Post-Secondary Certificate33%
Some College Courses17%
Less than a High School Diploma14%

Common questions

How much does a machinist earn?

The national median is $58,750 a year. The full range runs from $39,200 at the 10th percentile to $80,010 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a machinist without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Critical Thinking3.1/5
Monitoring3.1/5
Active Listening3.0/5
Speaking3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Mathematics3.5/5
Mechanical3.3/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
Design3.0/5
Engineering and Technology2.7/5
English Language2.7/5

Transferable strengths: Operation and Control, Operations Monitoring, Coordination, Complex Problem Solving, Troubleshooting, Quality Control Analysis.