Salary Survey Summary Data for Machine Tool Operator

The summary data provided is a sampling of ERI's Salary Assessor^® database. The average salary figures below are for base compensation. The Salary Assessor covers 5,700 job titles and 7,000 geographic locations. To download a demo of the Salary Assessor, please use the form to the right.

Job Description: Sets up and operates variety of machine tools, such as radial drill press, lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to machine metal work pieces, such as patterns and machine, tool, or die parts, usually on custom basis. A combination of over two years of directly related training and/or experience is typically required for carrying out the responsibilities for this job.: Analyzes specifications and determines tooling, applying knowledge of metal properties, machining, and shop mathematics. Studies blueprint or layout on work piece to visualize machining required, and plans sequence of operations. Selects method of holding work piece. Lifts work piece manually or using hoist, and positions and secures it to holding device, such as machine table, chuck, centers, or fixture, using wrenches and aids, such as shims, parallel blocks, planter gauges, and clamps. Verifies work piece position, using instruments, such as surface gauges, height gauges, and dial indicator. Selects feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, and cutting tool (bar tool, rotary cutter, or abrasive wheel) for each operation, according to knowledge of metal properties, machining, and shop mathematics. Positions and secures tool in tool holder (chuck, collet, or toolpost). Moves controls to position tool and work piece in relation to each other, and to set feeds, speeds, and depth of cut. Starts machine, turns handwheel to feed tool in work piece or vice versa, and engages automatic feeding device. Turns valve handle to start flow of coolant against tool and work piece. Observes operation and regulates tool position and action. Verifies conformance of machined work piece to specifications, using instruments, such as micrometers, gauges, and gauge blocks. May measure, mark, and scribe work piece to lay out for machining. May devise ways of clamping work pieces and make special jigs and fixtures as needed. May work on nonmetallic materials. May operate bench grinder or cutter grinding machine to sharpen tools. hide...show full description

Average Salary Data By Location

Atlanta, GA Boston, MA Charlotte, NC Chicago, IL Houston, TX Los Angeles, CA New York-Manhattan, NY Orlando, FL Philadelphia, PA Phoenix, AZ

Average Salary 35,553     Average Salary 39,246     Average Salary 33,961     Average Salary 43,358     Average Salary 40,681     Average Salary 36,843     Average Salary 39,651     Average Salary 35,626     Average Salary 41,686     Average Salary 35,989

Salary Assessor Demo Download

Other ERI Products:

• Geographic pay differentials
• Set branch office salaries

• Compare cost of living levels
• Set relocation bonuses and salary adjustments

• Set executive compensation levels
• Includes data from comparable companies

• Set executive compensation for nonprofits
• Includes over 23 million data points and comparable organizations