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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
Other titles employers use
CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer) · CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer) · CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator) · CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer) · CNC Tech (Computer Numerical Control Technician) · CNC Tool Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Tool Programmer)
Inside the work
What you would actually do.
6 responsibilities that define the role, before job titles and workplaces change the details.
- Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
- Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
- Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
- Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
- Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
Who it suits
Would this work hold your attention?
This career often appeals to people drawn to organizing, practical and analytical work.
- Organizing
- Creating order, checking details, and keeping work accurate
- Practical
- Building, repairing, using tools, or working outdoors
- Analytical
- Investigating questions, testing ideas, and solving problems
Skills and strengths
What you would get good at.
Compare the skills the work relies on, the subjects behind it, and the abilities that make it easier to learn.
Core skills
- Programming
- Monitoring
- Mathematics
- Complex Problem Solving
- Operations Monitoring
- Systems Analysis
Subjects to know
- Production and Processing
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
- Design
- Computers and Electronics
Useful strengths
- Near Vision
- Problem Sensitivity
- Information Ordering
- Perceptual Speed
- Mathematical Reasoning
Working day
Picture yourself doing it.
These measures show how much of the day involves people, movement, conversation, and hands-on work.
| Measure | Out of 5 | What that means here |
|---|---|---|
| Close to other people | 2.8 | Largely your own space |
| On your feet | 3.2 | Up and down through the day |
| Talking face to face | 4.5 | Continuous — the job is conversations |
| Working with your hands | 4.5 | Handling tools, instruments or materials |
Preparation
How people prepare for this work.
Employers usually ask for a postsecondary certificate. Other routes may also lead into the field.
- A certificate or some college 51%
- High school or less 33%
- A two-year degree 14%
- A four-year degree 2%
Tools of the work
Technology you may use.
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Enterprise application integration software
- Spreadsheet software
- Office suite software
- Electronic mail software
- Presentation software
- Word processing software
Opportunity near you
See where this work is growing.
Choose a state to compare the size of the field, annual openings, and expected hiring change.
- People doing this work
- 3,500
- Job openings each year
- 340
- Expected hiring change, 2022–2032
- 16.7%
Compare every available state
| State | People doing it | Job openings each year | Expected change |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 3,500 | 340 | 16.7% |
| Michigan | 2,620 | 250 | 12.9% |
| Wisconsin | 2,550 | 260 | 25.0% |
| Ohio | 2,330 | 230 | 14.2% |
| Texas | 2,190 | 220 | 23.0% |
| Illinois | 1,820 | 180 | 19.0% |
| Minnesota | 1,270 | 130 | 21.0% |
| Pennsylvania | 1,150 | 110 | 17.3% |
| New York | 1,000 | 0 | −7.4% |
| Oregon | 1,000 | 100 | 28.2% |
| Florida | 940 | 100 | 25.3% |
| Indiana | 930 | 90 | 20.8% |
| North Carolina | 930 | 90 | 24.0% |
| Kansas | 840 | 80 | 23.5% |
| Washington | 660 | 70 | 8.2% |
| Connecticut | 650 | 70 | 22.6% |
| Iowa | 650 | 60 | 20.4% |
| New Jersey | 580 | 60 | 13.7% |
| Georgia | 550 | 60 | 31.0% |
| Missouri | 550 | 60 | 19.6% |
| Oklahoma | 540 | 50 | 14.9% |
| Arizona | 530 | 60 | 32.5% |
| Colorado | 520 | 50 | 23.8% |
| Virginia | 490 | 50 | 19.5% |
| Utah | 470 | 50 | 34.3% |
| New Hampshire | 430 | 40 | 22.9% |
| Alabama | 410 | 40 | 20.6% |
| Tennessee | 410 | 40 | 20.6% |
| Maryland | 370 | 40 | 19.4% |
| Kentucky | 300 | 30 | 25.0% |
| Idaho | 290 | 30 | 38.1% |
| South Carolina | 280 | 30 | 27.3% |
| Massachusetts | 260 | 30 | 13.0% |
| Nebraska | 230 | 20 | 21.1% |
| Arkansas | 210 | 20 | 16.7% |
| South Dakota | 160 | 20 | 23.1% |
| Maine | 130 | 10 | 8.3% |
| Vermont | 110 | 10 | 10.0% |
| Mississippi | 90 | 10 | 28.6% |
| Rhode Island | 60 | 10 | 20.0% |
| Louisiana | 50 | 10 | — |
| Delaware | 40 | 0 | — |
| Nevada | 40 | 0 | 33.3% |
| North Dakota | 20 | 0 | — |
Career to college
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Where to study
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