CNC Machinist Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$48,300 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About CNC Machinist Jobs in Des Moines

Looking for a CNC Machinist job in Des Moines? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a CNC Machinist in Des Moines, IA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Des Moines has a strong job market for CNC Machinists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

CNC Machinist Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$31,280
Median
$48,300
Senior Level
$68,770

CNC Machinist salaries in Des Moines are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

CNC ProgrammingMachine OperationBlueprint ReadingQuality InspectionSetup

CNC Machinist Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for CNC Machinist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Des Moines offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Insurance leads the local economy, there's growing demand for CNC Machinist roles across various sectors. The market for CNC Machinist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring CNC Machinists in Des Moines

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring CNC Machinists in Des Moines include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for CNC Machinists in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a CNC Machinist means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median CNC Machinist salary, rent would consume about 45% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

92
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a CNC Machinist in Des Moines

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for CNC Machinists in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among CNC Machinist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A CNC Machinist earning $48,300 might pay approximately $3,864 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for CNC Machinists

The job outlook for CNC Machinists in Des Moines is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Des Moines offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include CNC Programming, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Quality Inspection.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your CNC Machinist salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Iowa has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average CNC Machinist salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average CNC Machinist salary in Des Moines, IA is $48,300 per year. Entry-level CNC Machinists typically start around $31,280, while experienced professionals can earn $68,770 or more. The national average for CNC Machinist roles is $52,500.

How many CNC Machinist jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for CNC Machinist professionals. Major employers hiring CNC Machinists include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for CNC Machinists?

Des Moines is an solid choice for CNC Machinists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's insurance industry creates strong demand for manufacturing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for CNC Machinists in Des Moines?

Top skills for CNC Machinists in Des Moines include CNC Programming, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Quality Inspection, Setup. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for CNC Machinists in Des Moines?

Des Moines's cost of living is near the national average (92% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for CNC Machinists in Des Moines?

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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