6 of the Highest Paying Woodworking Machine Operator Jobs in 2026

The best Woodworking Machine Operator jobs can pay up to $52,000 per year.

High Paying Woodworking Machine Operator Jobs

• Lathe Operator

  Salary range: $39,500 - $52,000

  A lathe operator works with machinery to fabricate metal for the manufacturing industry. As a lathe operator, your duties include programming, monitoring, and operating a lathe machine to create new metal or plastic parts. A lathe operator typically needs a high school diploma or a GED certificate, as well as relevant work experience through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Skills necessary for the career include strong math and mechanical aptitude, the ability to read blueprints, and knowledge of specialized computer software for controlling the lathe machine.

• Manual Lathe Operator

  Salary range: $38,000 - $51,000

  Manual lathe operators calibrate and operate a manual lathe machine or grinder, which is used to cut, sand, knurl, drill, face, and turn materials. As a manual lathe operator, you work with materials such as wood, metal, and glass. Before lathing, you read any blueprints or schematics, calculate the dimensions needed for the job, and inspect your workstation to ensure the machine and other equipment is in working order. You then set-up the machine and load the materials into it. When the equipment is in operation, you must pay careful attention to ensure that the tool settings remain within tolerances. When variations appear, you adjust the controls to correct for it.

• Planer Operator

  Salary range: $44,000 - $50,000

  The majority of Planer Operator salaries across the United States currently range between $44,000 (25th percentile) and $50,000 (75th percentile) annually. Most people working in this role make similar salaries regardless of skill level, location and years of experience. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Planer Operator job market in the United States is not very active as few companies are currently hiring for this role. You can try exploring related titles to find jobs with more active opportunities.

• CNC Router Operator

  Salary range: $36,000 - $46,500

  A CNC router operator uses a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router to cut various materials, like metal, plastic, and wood. Your duties as a CNC router operator are to arrange machine setup properly before beginning work, read blueprints as instructions for cutting, and operate the machine safely. Your responsibilities may also include attending safety and educational training meetings; cleaning, maintaining, and performing routine inspections on the router; and training apprentices how to use the equipment properly. A CNC router operator can work varied hours for lumber, sign, and other fabrication companies that work with cut materials.

• Pellet Mill Operator

  Salary range: $39,500 - $46,000

  The majority of Pellet Mill Operator salaries across the United States currently range between $39,500 (25th percentile) and $46,000 (75th percentile) annually. This moderate range of salaries suggests pay in this role will be consistent, regardless skill level, location and years of experience, though some advancement is possible. Based on recent job postings on ZipRecruiter, the Pellet Mill Operator job market in the United States is moderately active, with several companies hiring.

• Router Operator

  Salary range: $30,500 - $40,000

  The majority of Router Operator salaries across the United States currently range between $30,500 (25th percentile) and $40,000 (75th percentile) annually. This moderate range of salaries suggests pay in this role will be consistent, regardless skill level, location and years of experience, though some advancement is possible. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Router Operator job market in the United States is not very active as few companies are currently hiring for this role. You can try exploring related titles to find jobs with more active opportunities.