The EMBS CNC Machinist Salary Guide 2025

Specialist engineering recruiter Kirsty Whitty introduces the EMBS CNC Machinist Salary Guide 2025.

Pay is always at the forefront of anyone’s mind. With 2025 well underway, I’ve been delving into the latest market data to bring you a clearer picture of what you can expect to earn in the East and West Midlands, and indeed, the wider UK.

East Midlands

Let’s start close to home, here in the East Midlands. On average, a CNC machinist in our region can anticipate a salary of approximately £35,000 per year. However, this is just a starting point, as the range typically extends from £25,900 to £45,000, and sometimes even higher for those with highly sought-after skills and experience. When we look at hourly rates, these generally fall between £13 and £19, with specialist roles often commanding more.

Zooming in on specific East Midlands locations, Derby itself sees an average CNC salary of around £32,500 annually, with a usual bracket of £28,000 to £37,500. Yet, for exceptionally experienced individuals, I’ve seen listings reach up to £47,556 or beyond. Hourly, Derby rates can range from £16 to £24.83, reflecting the diverse opportunities available. 

Nottingham salaries typically range from £27,394 to £40,000 per year, with hourly rates settling between £14 and £19. For those in Leicester, salaries appear to span from £26,415 to £45,000 annually, with hourly rates potentially reaching £20. Other towns across the East Midlands, such as Mansfield, Ripley, Burton-on-Trent, and Chesterfield, generally offer salaries between £28,000 and £41,000 per year, or £15 to £18 per hour.

West Midlands

The market data here presents a similar, yet slightly varied, picture. The general average for a CNC machinist sits around £31,787 to £33,100 per year. The broader range is quite similar to the East Midlands, from £25,000 to £45,000, but again, specific roles and locations within the region will influence this. Hourly rates in the West Midlands typically range from £13 to £23.

Birmingham offers an average of approximately £32,500 annually for CNC roles, with a common range of £26,750 to £37,500. Coventry shows an average around £31,787 per year, with a potential range from £24,459 to £37,774, and hourly rates for CNC Miller Programmers often falling between £18 and £22. 

In Wolverhampton, the average for a CNC Programmer is reported closer to £40,151, ranging from £34,125 to £45,630, although general CNC Machinist roles may be a little lower, closer to the regional average. 

Walsall indicates an average around £31,787 per year, with a range of roughly £28,362 to £34,242, and hourly rates for CNC Machinists typically between £15.50 and £16.50. Other areas like West Bromwich, Dudley, and Oldbury also show varying salary ranges, generally aligning with the broader West Midlands figures. While there’s undeniable overlap, the average salary for CNC machinists appears to be marginally lower in the West Midlands compared to the East Midlands based on current data.

Key to Success

So, what truly dictates how much a CNC machinist earns? It comes down to several key factors. 

Experience

Experience is paramount, with entry-level positions naturally commanding less than those for seasoned professionals. Senior machinists or those with highly specialised capabilities, such as advanced programming or multi-axis machining, will always be in a stronger negotiating position. 

Specific Skills

Specific skills are crucial; proficiency in particular programming languages like Fanuc or Mazatrol, the ability to set and operate intricate machinery, and expertise in handling diverse materials can significantly boost earning potential. The industry you work within also plays a role; high-precision sectors such as aerospace, automotive, or medical device manufacturing often offer more competitive remuneration than general engineering or fabrication. 

Shift Work

Finally, don’t forget the impact of shift work and overtime. Roles involving nights or rotating shifts frequently come with attractive allowances that increase overall compensation, and a willingness to take on overtime can substantially enhance annual earnings.

If you’re a CNC machinist looking for your next career move, or an employer seeking top talent, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here at EMBS. We’re always here to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of engineering recruitment.

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