CNC Machinist
$20 - $35/hr
Low $20's/hr (entry-level) to Mid-$30's/hr (experienced machinists) Shift Differentials: Up to +$6 ... Mastercam, Vericut Schedule Options: Day, 2nd Shift, 3rd Shift, Weekend Shift --- Why This Role ...
CNC Machinist
$20 - $35/hr
Low $20's/hr (entry-level) to Mid-$30's/hr (experienced machinists) Shift Differentials: Up to +$6 ... Mastercam, Vericut Schedule Options: Day, 2nd Shift, 3rd Shift, Weekend Shift --- Why This Role ...
Senior CNC Manufacturing Engineer
$85K - $150K/yr
... entry-level engineers. * Meet critical schedules and uphold rigorous quality standards. What You ... MasterCam) highly desirable. * Familiarity with CNC controls such as Fanuc, Seiki, and OSP is a ...
Senior CNC Manufacturing Engineer
$85K - $150K/yr
... entry-level engineers. * Meet critical schedules and uphold rigorous quality standards. What You ... MasterCam) highly desirable. * Familiarity with CNC controls such as Fanuc, Seiki, and OSP is a ...
Optical Machinist Technician, ALL Shifts
Ontario, NY · On-site
$47.53K - $71.29K/yr
CNC Mill programming with Mastercam * A High School Diploma or GED required. Vocational training in ... Minimum 2 years machining experience in a manufacturing environment - Entry Level * 2-5+ years Mid ...
Quick apply
Optical Machinist Technician, ALL Shifts
Ontario, NY · On-site
$47.53K - $71.29K/yr
CNC Mill programming with Mastercam * A High School Diploma or GED required. Vocational training in ... Minimum 2 years machining experience in a manufacturing environment - Entry Level * 2-5+ years Mid ...
Optical Machinist Technician, ALL Shifts
Ontario, NY · On-site
$47.53K - $71.29K/yr
CNC Mill programming with Mastercam * A High School Diploma or GED required. Vocational training in ... Minimum 2 years machining experience in a manufacturing environment - Entry Level * 2-5+ years Mid ...
Quick apply
Optical Machinist Technician, ALL Shifts
Ontario, NY · On-site
$47.53K - $71.29K/yr
CNC Mill programming with Mastercam * A High School Diploma or GED required. Vocational training in ... Minimum 2 years machining experience in a manufacturing environment - Entry Level * 2-5+ years Mid ...
Surface Grinder
$30 - $45/hr
Job Requirements Entry level out of a trade school or up to 10 years of experience in surface ... shop, Tooling, Mastercam, Cnc programming, G code, Milling, Set up machine, G&m codes, Okuma ...
Quick apply
Surface Grinder
$30 - $45/hr
Job Requirements Entry level out of a trade school or up to 10 years of experience in surface ... shop, Tooling, Mastercam, Cnc programming, G code, Milling, Set up machine, G&m codes, Okuma ...
Mastercam Programmer Entry Level information
See salary details
$24.28 - $26.31
4% of jobs
$26.31 - $28.34
16% of jobs
$28.88 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$28.34 - $30.38
19% of jobs
The median wage is $32.02 / hr.
$30.38 - $32.41
14% of jobs
$33.95 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$32.41 - $34.44
29% of jobs
$34.44 - $36.47
6% of jobs
$36.47 - $38.51
3% of jobs
$38.51 - $40.54
2% of jobs
$40.54 - $42.57
2% of jobs
$42.57 - $44.60
2% of jobs
$44.60 - $46.63
2% of jobs
$24
$33
$46
How much do mastercam programmer entry level jobs pay per hour?
As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for mastercam programmer entry level in the United States is $33.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mastercam Programmer Entry Level, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Mastercam Programmer Entry Level, you need a foundational understanding of CNC machining, blueprint reading, and basic CAD/CAM concepts, often supported by vocational training or associate degrees in manufacturing or engineering. Familiarity with Mastercam software, G-code programming, and CNC machine operation is typically required, and certifications in CAD/CAM or Mastercam can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for producing accurate and efficient programs. These skills are essential for ensuring precision in manufacturing processes, minimizing errors, and contributing to a productive and safe work environment.
What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Mastercam Programmers, and how can they overcome them?
Entry-level Mastercam Programmers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical drawings, understanding different machining processes, and learning to optimize tool paths for efficiency and precision. Collaborating closely with experienced machinists and engineers is essential to bridge knowledge gaps and improve workflow. Regularly seeking feedback, participating in on-the-job training, and leveraging online tutorials can help accelerate skill development and confidence in programming CNC machines using Mastercam.
What is a Mastercam Programmer Entry Level?
A Mastercam Programmer Entry Level is a professional who uses Mastercam software to create and modify computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) programs for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. At the entry level, they typically assist with designing toolpaths, setting up machining operations, and ensuring that parts are produced accurately according to engineering drawings. They often work under the guidance of more experienced programmers while learning industry standards, machine capabilities, and software best practices. This role is crucial for efficiently turning digital designs into real-world manufactured parts.
What is the difference between Mastercam Programmer Entry Level vs CNC Machinist Entry Level?
| Aspect | Mastercam Programmer Entry Level | CNC Machinist Entry Level |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Basic knowledge of Mastercam software, often an associate degree or technical certification | High school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training |
| Work Environment | Designing and programming CNC machines, primarily in manufacturing settings | Operating CNC machines, setting up and running equipment in manufacturing |
| Industry Usage | Used in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industries for programming | Used across similar industries for machine operation and production |
Mastercam Programmer Entry Level focuses on creating CNC programs using Mastercam software, while CNC Machinist Entry Level involves operating and setting up CNC machines. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often overlapping in work environment and industry usage, but differ in technical focus and responsibilities.
More about Mastercam Programmer Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Mastercam Programmer Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Mastercam Programmer Entry Level job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mastercam Programmer jobs? The most popular types of Mastercam Programmer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Mastercam Programmer Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mastercam Programmer Entry Level jobs are:
$20 - $35/hr
Full-time, Other
Medical, Retirement, PTO
Posted 15 days ago
Job description
At a Glance
Company: Topeka Foundry & Iron Works (TFI) – An HME Group Company
Location: Topeka, Kansas
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Low $20’s/hr (entry-level) to Mid-$30’s/hr (experienced machinists)
Shift Differentials: Up to +$6/hr (night shifts) | +$2/hr weekend premium
Benefits: 100% Company-Paid Medical (family coverage) or $2/hr opt-out bonus
Experience Level: 1+ year CNC machining required
Software: Mastercam, Vericut
Schedule Options: Day, 2nd Shift, 3rd Shift, Weekend Shift
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Why This Role Exists
Topeka Foundry & Iron Works has been machining critical industrial components since 1876 — making it the longest-running machine shop in Kansas.
As production demand continues to grow and the company invests in modern CNC technology, TFI is expanding its machinist team. This role exists to support increased machining capacity across multiple shifts while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that built the company’s 149-year reputation.
This is a long-term, stable opportunity — not a temporary production spike.
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What You’ll Be Doing
In this role, you will:
- Operate CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and other precision equipment
- Adjust feeds, speeds, tooling, and offsets to maintain tight tolerances
- Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints
- Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools
- Work with Mastercam programs and utilize Vericut for verification
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workstation
- Support preventative maintenance activities
This is a hands-on machining role in a real production environment — not button-pushing.
---
What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year of CNC machining experience
- Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings
- Understanding of G-code and CNC tooling concepts
- Comfortable using micrometers, calipers, and inspection tools
- Strong attention to detail and safety mindset
- High school diploma or equivalent (CNC certification a plus)
Both developing machinists and experienced professionals are encouraged to apply.
---
Shift Options & Premiums
Day Shift:
Monday–Friday | 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
2nd Shift:
Monday–Thursday | 4:00 PM – 2:30 AM
3rd Shift:
Monday–Thursday | 7:00 PM – 5:30 AM
Up to +$6/hr shift differential
Weekend Shift:
Friday–Sunday | 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Work 36 hours, get paid for 40
+$2/hr weekend premium from Day 1
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Compensation & Benefits
TFI offers one of the strongest benefit packages in the region:
- $20–$35+/hr based on experience
- Up to +$6/hr shift premiums
- 100% company-paid medical insurance for you and your family
OR $2/hr opt-out bonus - Weekly pay
- Performance-based raises (90 days & annually)
- 401(k) with company match
- PTO that never expires
- Paid holidays
- Company bonuses & profit opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- On-the-job training and career advancement
And notably — TFI has never had company layoffs.
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Culture & Stability
Topeka Foundry & Iron Works is part of HME Group, employing over 600 people across six companies.
The culture is family-first, long-term focused, and built on loyalty. Employees enjoy:
- Company events and tournaments
- Holiday celebrations
- Internal advancement opportunities
- Long-term job stability
This is a shop where machinists build careers — not just resumes.
---
Apply Today
If you’re a CNC Machinist looking for competitive pay, serious benefits, and long-term stability in Topeka, KS — this is worth a conversation.
Apply directly through the hireCNC job board.
About Topeka Foundry & Iron Works
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Machinery manufacturing
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Topeka, KS, US
Year founded
1876