Machining is a highly in-demand career path in the U.S. Around 70% of the current workforce is over the age of 45, and as senior machinists retire, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 10% increase in the number of available machinist positions by 2024 – equivalent to more than 29,000 new machinist jobs.
The barrier to entry to become a CNC Machinist is relatively low, with many (56 percent) machinists starting right out of high school. 12-18 months of on-the-job training or a 1-2 year apprenticeship are typical, although a technical degree may be required for certain jobs, such as CNC programming.
To find out more about becoming a Machinist and get a glimpse into a day in the life of a Machinist, read CNC Machinists at a Glance.
According to Indeed.com, the average hourly income for a CNC machinist in Minneapolis, Minnesota is $25,94 (Or $51,880/year), based on 151 reported salaries. This is 23 percent higher than the national average, which is $21.38, based on 12,400 reported salaries.
According to SalaryExpert.com, the average annual CNC machinist salary is $50,225 (or an hourly rate of $24).
Meanwhile, Glassdoor puts the average annual income for a CNC Machinist in Minneapolis-St. Paul at $47,632 (or $23.82/h calculated at 40hours per week, 50 weeks per year) based on 89 reported salaries.
It’s important to remember that the salary estimations given by these platforms are reliant on data from jobs listed on their platforms and anonymous reporting,
Also note that these are merely averages. That is to say that an entry-level CNC machinist may earn significantly less, while a more experienced machinist is likely to earn significantly more. For instance, according to SalaryExpert, the average salary of an entry-level CNC machinist (1-3 years experience) in Minnesota is $36,942, whereas a senior CNC machinist (8+ years) makes around $61,314 per year.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average hourly wage for machinists is $22.17 (or $46,120/year).
If we take the average of these numbers, we get an average Minnesota CNC machinist salary of $49,912 per year. When we add the average yearly bonus of $1400, the average annual CNC machinist income in Minnesota is $51,312.
Machining is a growing industry that offers many exciting career opportunities. A CNC machinist uses a computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine to perform precise machining techniques. The CNC machine is programmed to perform functions such as drilling, milling, grinding, cutting, or lathing to transform raw materials including metal and plastic into machined parts to specification.
CNC Machinist typically need a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Most shops offer apprenticeships and on-the-job training. However, many employers prefer candidates with a formal certification such as a diploma or Associate’s Degree.
As a general rule, more technically-qualified Machinists with broader skillsets tend to earn more – which makes formal machining training a good investment in your future.
While the barrier to entry is low, CNC machine work requires technical aptitude, mathematical ability, and attention to detail. CNC Machinists who are proficient at interpreting technical blueprints and schematics are in high demand, as are skilled CNC Programmers.
Machining certifications such as those offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMs) are optional but are likely to lead to better employment opportunities.
Below, we’ve summed up the top skills CNC Machinists need to have.
CNC Machinists need to be fairly technically gifted and be comfortable working with numbers and measurements as metrology equipment such as calipers, micrometers, and coordinate measurement machines are common tools on the job. CNC machines are run by computers, and the CNC operators controlling them need to understand how to use CAD/CAM.
Machinists also need a deep knowledge of the machines and tools they work with, including their design specifications, uses, maintenance and repair specifications. In addition, Machinists need to understand the raw materials, production processes, costs, and quality control mechanisms involved in their work in order to manufacture goods in the most effective way possible.
Being able to troubleshoot and solve problems is a crucial skill for aspiring CNC Machinists as machinists will occasionally encounter production errors. Machine operators need to be able to monitor production quality according to specified standards and identify and resolve any problems that arise to maintain optimal output and performance.
CNC Machinists need a basic understanding of mathematics as it applies to their work.
Attention to detail is a crucial skill in CNC Machinists due to the importance of precision in machining. Tiny variances in measurements can drastically affect production output quality and result in costly do-overs.
Basic computer literacy is vital for all Machinists, and knowledge of software as well as hardware like circuitry, processors, chips and various electronic equipment will stand CNC Machinists in good stead. CNC Programmers need advanced knowledge of computers and programming, and learning this skill is a surefire way to improve your employment outlook and earning potential.
CNC Machinists must be able to interpret technical plans, drawings, models, and blueprints and execute instructions per specifications.
CNC Machinists need to be able to communicate clearly with supervisors, peers, and subordinates and listen, follow and issue directions, ask questions and explain situations to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
CNC Machinists usually work as part of an industrial team and as such need to be able to successfully work as part of a team.
Below, we’ve included several CNC job opportunities in Minnesota to give you a sense of what’s out there if you have the right skill set. Check out the links below to discover even more awesome CNC Machinist jobs.
300 24th Street Northwest, Faribault, Minnesota
Set up and operate a CNC machine: punch shear, turret press, master brake press, and line shear.
Apply here
10700 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Using blueprints and drawings, mechanically install and align tools to set up CNC machines
10700 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Operate a CNC machine working with aluminum, carbon and stainless steels in a fast-paced environment with high pressure and short deadlines.
18351 Territorial Road, Dayton, Minnesota
Operate a CNC machine to produce precision components.
10700 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Using blueprints and drawings, mechanically install and align tools to set up CNC machines
For more CNC Machinist jobs in Minnesota, check out this jobs roundup or view our Jobs Board. For information about CNC machinist training opportunities, check out this roundup of CNC training programs and our scholarship board.
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