CNC Machinist Jobs in Portland, OR

Portland, Oregon$68,250 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About CNC Machinist Jobs in Portland

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

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.

Portland 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 Portland

Entry Level
$44,200
Median
$68,250
Senior Level
$97,175

CNC Machinist salaries in Portland are 30% above the national average, reflecting the competitive local market.

Purchasing power in Portland 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 Portland

Portland, OR is a major regional employment hub for CNC Machinist professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 653K residents, Portland balances career opportunities with quality of life. The city's strong Technology and Manufacturing sectors create robust demand for CNC Machinist talent. The market for CNC Machinist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring CNC Machinists in Portland

IntelDaimler TrucksPrecision CastpartsLeatherman

Major employers hiring CNC Machinists in Portland include Intel, Daimler Trucks, Precision Castparts, Leatherman. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for CNC Machinists in Portland

Living in Portland as a CNC Machinist means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average at 130% of baseline. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for CNC Machinist salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

130
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a CNC Machinist in Portland

Portland MAX Light Rail, streetcar, and extensive bus/bike infrastructure. The average commute time is 26 minutes. Portland is very bike-friendly - many commute by bike year-round. MAX reaches Nike, Intel, and downtown tech corridor.

Best neighborhoods for CNC Machinists in Portland: 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 Oregon

Oregon has relatively high state income taxes. A CNC Machinist earning $68,250 might pay approximately $5,460 in state income tax. However, Oregon'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 Portland is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Portland's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include CNC Programming, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Quality Inspection.

Relocating to Portland

Oregon has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading. The Pacific Northwest has mild temperatures but significant rainfall. Invest in quality rain gear and embrace the indoor coffee culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average CNC Machinist salary in Portland, OR?

The average CNC Machinist salary in Portland, OR is $68,250 per year. Entry-level CNC Machinists typically start around $44,200, while experienced professionals can earn $97,175 or more. The national average for CNC Machinist roles is $52,500.

How many CNC Machinist jobs are available in Portland?

Portland has a strong job market with regular openings for CNC Machinist professionals. Major employers hiring CNC Machinists include Intel, Daimler Trucks, Precision Castparts, Leatherman. The Technology and Manufacturing sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Portland a good city for CNC Machinists?

Portland is an excellent choice for CNC Machinists. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for manufacturing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for CNC Machinists in Portland?

Top skills for CNC Machinists in Portland 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 Portland?

Portland's cost of living is above the national average (130% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for CNC Machinists in Portland?

Portland MAX Light Rail, streetcar, and extensive bus/bike infrastructure. The average commute is 26 minutes. Portland is very bike-friendly - many commute by bike year-round.

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