Machine Shop Specialist information
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$19.5K - $27.9K
0% of jobs
$27.9K - $36.4K
24% of jobs
$36.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$36.4K - $44.8K
19% of jobs
$44.8K - $53.3K
0% of jobs
$53.3K - $61.7K
3% of jobs
The median wage is $66K / yr.
$61.7K - $70.2K
7% of jobs
$70.2K - $78.6K
13% of jobs
$84.4K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$78.6K - $87.1K
13% of jobs
$87.1K - $95.5K
11% of jobs
$95.5K - $104K
11% of jobs
How much do machine shop specialist jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine shop specialist in the United States is $64,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Machine Shop Specialists are skilled tradespeople who operate, maintain, and oversee the use of various machines such as lathes, mills, and grinders to fabricate or repair metal parts. They read blueprints, set up equipment, and ensure precision in creating components for different industries, including manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. Their expertise includes selecting the right materials, programming CNC machines, and adhering to safety and quality standards. Machine Shop Specialists play a crucial role in producing parts that meet exact specifications and are essential for the functioning of complex equipment.
To thrive as a Machine Shop Specialist, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision machining skills, and a background in manufacturing processes, often gained through technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and inspection tools is commonly required, along with relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality parts, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring efficient shop operations.
Machine Shop Specialists often encounter challenges when fabricating parts that require extremely tight tolerances or intricate geometries. Maintaining precision while compensating for tool wear, material inconsistencies, and machine calibration demands keen attention to detail and proactive problem-solving. Collaborating closely with engineers and quality control teams is essential to ensure specifications are met, and regularly updating skills to operate advanced CNC machinery can help overcome these challenges. Adapting to new materials and evolving manufacturing technologies also plays a significant role in meeting production and quality standards.
What cities are hiring for Machine Shop Specialist jobs?
Cities with the most Machine Shop Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Machine Shop Specialist jobs?
States with the most job openings for Machine Shop Specialist jobs include: