Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Salary in Milwaukee, WI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI

Median annual salary $57,710 +15.5% vs national
Median hourly $27.75
10th percentile $39,870
90th percentile $76,070
Employed locally 3,260
National median $49,970

Compare Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how Milwaukee, WI stacks up on salary and cost of living.

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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
in
Milwaukee, WI
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    In Milwaukee, WI, a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Tool Operator earns a median annual salary of $57,710, which is higher than the national median for this occupation at $49,970. This local median translates to an hourly rate of $27.75. When compared to the area's median household income of $76,404, CNC tool operators earn about 75% of what the average household in Milwaukee makes annually. Despite being a specialized role, their earnings are slightly below the median for households but represent a significant portion of household incomes within the local economy.

    Entry-level CNC Tool Operators typically fall around the 10th percentile with an annual salary of $39,870, reflecting the initial earning potential for those new to the field. In contrast, experienced operators working at or near the 75th percentile earn approximately $65,170 annually, indicating a notable salary growth as workers gain proficiency and expertise in operating complex machinery. Factors driving this wage disparity include the level of experience, specific technical skills acquired over time, certification achievements, and the ability to manage more sophisticated tasks or equipment. The substantial difference between entry-level and experienced salaries underscores the value placed on accumulated knowledge and skill within this trade.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $39,870
    25th
    $48,900
    50th (median)
    $57,710
    75th
    $65,170
    90th
    $76,070

    Milwaukee economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $76,404 2023 • Census ACS
    Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salary vs area income 76% Median Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salary is 24% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators make per hour in Milwaukee?

    The median hourly wage for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators in Milwaukee, WI is $27.75, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $37.00 or more per hour.

    Is Milwaukee above or below average for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salaries?

    The median Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salary in Milwaukee, WI is 15.5% above the national median of $49,970. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators in Milwaukee?

    Entry-level Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (10th percentile) earn around $39,870 per year in Milwaukee, WI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $48,900.