Salary
Average Salary: $41,000
Expected Lifetime Earnings: $1,711,668
The mean annual wage for machinists is $41,000; the median hourly wage is $19 an hour (source). Here's some good news to take out of this—$19 an hour is not only like twice the current minimum wage, but higher than the proposed $15 an hour. So there's that.
There is a bit of room to grow, however—if you're at the very top of your field, you might crack $50,000, but just barely. Want to get to the top? The highest paying industries include natural gas distribution and elementary and secondary schools—basically, sectors that aren't hiring too often anyway.
Being willing to move could help you find a job. Employment levels are highest in Texas and California; and highest paying states including the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Alaska, and Delaware. We know you may not be the "up 'n movin'" type, but if your heart is set on being a machinist, you may want to consider it.