Earnings:

Median hourly wage-and-salary earnings of machinists were $16.71 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $13.14 and $20.82. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $10.29, while the top 10 percent earned more than $25.31. Median hourly wage-and-salary earnings in the manufacturing industries employing the largest number of machinists were:

• Aerospace product and parts manufacturing    $18.46
• Motor vehicle parts manufacturing    $18.27
• Metalworking machinery manufacturing    $17.36
• Machine shops; turned product; and screw, nut, and bolt manufacturing    $16.24
• Employment services    $11.98

Apprentices earn much less than experienced machinists, but earnings increase quickly as they improve their skills. Also most employers pay for apprentices’ training classes.

For more information and statistics, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.