Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Also Called: Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist), Computer Numerical Control Programmer (CNC Programmer), Programmer

Associate's Degree

usually needed

Not Available
(Students Only)
Match Percentage

$45,980

Entry Salary

Bright

Job outlook

What Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers do

Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.

  • Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
  • Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
  • Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
Industry Areas:

Advanced Manufacturing • Information Technology

Expand For Additional Details

Work Context

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Freedom to Make Decisions
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

Tools

  • Drill press or radial drill
  • Calipers
  • Automatic lathe or chucking machine
  • Coordinate measuring machines CMM
  • Dial indicator or dial gauge

Technology

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD
Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Video conferencing software
FaceTime
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
1CadCam Unigraphics
Vero Software WorkNC

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Programming
  • Monitoring
  • Operation Monitoring
  • Active Learning
  • Complex Problem Solving

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
mechanical
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
English language

Education

  • 41% Post-secondary certificate
  • 24% High school diploma or equivalent
  • 19% Associate's degree

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What are some related occupations at different educational levels?


Job Training Match

Model Makers, Metal & Plastic

Educational Level

High School Diploma or Equivalent

 Job Training Match

Patternmakers, Metal & Plastic

Educational Level

Post-secondary, non-degree

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers Currently Selected

Educational Level

Associate's Degree

 Job Training Match

Computer Network Support Specialists

Educational Level

Bachelor's Degree

 Job Training Match

Computer Network Architects

Educational Level

Advanced Degree

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Advanced Training

  • Cascades - Job Corps

    Sedro Woolley, Washington

  • Edison - Job Corps

    Edison, New Jersey

ACT & College

  • Arkansas State University-Beebe

    Beebe, AR

  • College of the Ouachitas

    Malvern, AR

Apprenticeships

Earn while you learn. Apprenticeships combines paid training & specialized classes to help workers enter highly skilled occupations. Click here for to locate an apprenticeship near you.

Military

The Military offers exciting career opportunities that align with your interests. Click here to explore military careers and find a recruiter near you.

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

Work Styles

  • Attention to Detail
  • Independence
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Achievement/Effort

Values

  • Support
  • Independence
  • Relationships

Abilities

  • Math
  • Ideas and Logic
  • Visual Understanding
  • Verbal

This is what Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers across the country typically make.

$22.11 / hour
$45,980 /year

Entry Level

$30.50 / hour
$63,440 /year

Median Level

$45.61 / hour
$94,880 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Bright

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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