Thousands of verified CNC Machinist professionals across North America -- onsite, hybrid, or remote. Marketplace and automation service company. Direct contracting.
Reviewed by Automate America Editorial Team -- updated 2026-05-26 -- citing U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics + O*NET SOC 51-4012.00.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job growth outlook through 2034
10+
Top skills tracked on AutomateAmerica
Updated on page load
Actual hourly rate depends on location, contract duration, scope of work, vendor stack, and contractor experience. The range above reflects active hourly contracts on Automate America.
What does a CNC Machinist do?
CNC machinists program, set up, and operate computer numerically controlled mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers to produce precision parts from metal, plastic, and composite stock. They write or post-process G-code from CAM software, select tooling and workholding, dial in offsets, verify first articles with CMM or hand gauging, then run production while monitoring tool wear, dimensional drift, and cycle efficiency.
G-code and M-code programmingCAM programming (Mastercam, Fusion 360)3, 4, and 5-axis machiningMill-turn and Swiss-style programmingTooling and feeds/speedsWorkholding designGD&T and blueprint readingPrecision measurement (CMM)Setup reduction and SMEDLights-out and probing
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics outlook: +7% employment growth projected through 2034 (median annual wage $63,450). See the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
BLS projects ~7% growth through 2034, faster than average, driven by reshoring, defense buildup, semi equipment, EV/aerospace. Severe shortage in 5-axis, mill-turn, and Swiss programmers; new grads with strong CAM skills receive multiple offers. Automation (robot-tended cells, lights-out) raises rather than reduces demand for senior programmers.
Related Occupations & Specializations
This occupation has no listed sub-specialties.
Top Hiring Locations for CNC Machinist Contractors
Onboard & manage. Use built-in time sheets, expense reports, and approvals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hire CNC Machinist contractors on Automate America?
Post your contract on the Post Your Opportunity page. Verified CNC Machinist contractors will respond with availability and rates within hours. You select the best match and contract directly -- marketplace and automation service company.
What does a CNC Machinist contractor cost per hour?
Hourly rates on Automate America are set by the CNC Machinist contractor based on experience, geography, and project scope. The platform stat block above shows the live average from recent contracts. For reference, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median annual wage near $63,450 for this occupation (see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for the most recent year). Specialized work commands 25-50% premium over the median.
Are CNC Machinist contractors available for onsite, hybrid, or remote work?
Yes. Automate America connects CNC Machinist contractors for onsite (any U.S. or Canada location), hybrid, and fully remote work. Specify your preference when you post the contract.
How fast can I find a CNC Machinist contractor?
Two paths -- both fast. (1)Post your contract and qualified CNC Machinist contractors will apply within hours. (2) Skip the wait entirely -- Search and Request Professionals directly from the CNC Machinist directory and message the people whose profiles match your need. Most urgent contracts ship within 48 hours.
Does Automate America vet CNC Machinist contractors before they apply?
All CNC Machinist contractors on Automate America have verified profiles, documented work history, validated skill sets, and reviews from prior customers. You can also request references, prior-work samples, and certification proof directly before signing.
Can I browse CNC Machinist contractors before posting a contract?
Yes. Search and Request Professionals shows the full CNC Machinist directory. You can filter by location, skills, and availability and message contractors directly -- no contract post required.