Average Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Salary in Fort Smith, AR-OK
In Fort Smith, AR-OK, Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Tool Operators earn an average annual salary of $51,850. This figure is slightly below the national average of $52,900, indicating a localized compensation structure influenced by regional economic factors and industry demand within the Fort Smith metropolitan area. The proximity of the AR-OK region to manufacturing hubs likely plays a role in shaping these local wage trends.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $51,850 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 15.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $54,790.
- Outlook: The CNC Tool Operator job market in Fort Smith, AR-OK, exhibits a notable concentration, with a Location Quotient of 3.49, significantly exceeding the national average. This suggests a robust demand for these specialized skills within the local economy, supported by a workforce of 390 professionals in this role. The high concentration implies that employers in the region actively seek and retain CNC operators, pointing towards a stable and potentially growing job market for this profession.
Salary Overview
The average Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators in Fort Smith, AR-OK earns-2.0%below the national average.
$24.9
$997
$4,321
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Fort Smith's CNC operator salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in compensation, mirroring national patterns. Economic growth, inflation, and increasing demand for skilled manufacturing labor typically drive salary increases for specialized roles like CNC operators. Therefore, professionals in this field in Fort Smith likely have experienced incremental salary growth over the last four years.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Salary Distribution in Fort Smith, AR-OK
Career progression for CNC Tool Operators in Fort Smith, AR-OK, is typically marked by increasing earning potential. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles of the salary range, while experienced operators with specialized skills and a proven track record can command salaries in the upper percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies substantial opportunities for salary growth through skill development and years of dedicated service in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $36,890 | $17.7 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $38,888 | $18.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $54,790 | $26.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $64,813 | $31.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $54,790 | $26.3 |
Detailed Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$51,850
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$51,850
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $51,850 for CNC Tool Operators in Fort Smith, AR-OK, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a CNC operator's salary in Fort Smith is equivalent to the national average. While the salary is slightly below the national average for the role, the cost of living parity suggests that the take-home pay offers comparable financial stability to that of a CNC operator in many other parts of the country.
Job Market Context
390
Total Jobs
4.008
Per 1K Jobs
3.49
Location Quotient
Fort Smith, AR-OK has 3.5x the national concentration of Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a Location Quotient of 3.49, Fort Smith, AR-OK, demonstrates a significantly higher concentration of CNC Tool Operators compared to the national average. This indicates a specialized and potentially competitive market where these skills are highly valued and in demand. The abundance of these roles relative to the general workforce suggests that local industries heavily rely on CNC machining, making it a potentially favorable environment for skilled operators seeking employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators Salary | $43,100↓ 17% | 51 mi |
Comparing salaries near Fort Smith, AR-OK
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators make in Fort Smith, AR-OK?
The median annual salary for a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators in Fort Smith, AR-OK is $51,850. This typically ranges from $36,890 for entry-level positions to $54,790 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 2.0% lower than the national median of $52,900.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a lucrative place for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators?
Yes, with caveats.Fort Smith, AR-OK offers a strong concentration of CNC operator jobs (LQ 3.49) with a salary matching the national cost of living. While the nominal salary is slightly below the national average, the stable job market and cost of living parity make it a viable location.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a good place to live for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators?
The Cost of Living Index in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Fort Smith, AR-OK?
Some top paying nearby cities include Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR ($43,100) and others.
How does the CNC operator salary in Fort Smith compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for CNC Tool Operators in Fort Smith, AR-OK is $51,850, which is slightly lower than the national average of $52,900.
What is the cost of living in Fort Smith, AR-OK for CNC operators?
The cost of living in Fort Smith, AR-OK is exactly at the national average, indicated by an index of 100. This means your salary has the same purchasing power as it would nationally.
How strong is the demand for CNC operators in Fort Smith?
Demand is strong, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 3.49, meaning CNC operators are significantly more concentrated in Fort Smith than the national average.
What is the total number of CNC operators in Fort Smith?
There are approximately 390 Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators working in the Fort Smith, AR-OK area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 390 employees in the Fort Smith, AR-OK area with a job density of 4.008 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Fort Smith, AR-OK