Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist),
CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator),
CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer),
Programmer
What they 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.
- DemandHigh
- state Avg. Salary $$$$$$59,760Download Career Flyer
What do they typically do on the job?
- 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.
Personality
Interests
Career interests describe the perspectives and interests of people who enjoy the type of work involved in this career.
Discover what your interests are by taking the Interest Profiler Quiz
Abilities
Whether you have received formal training or not, these types of abilities are helpful in this career.
Math
Choose the right type of math to solve a problem
Add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Ideas and Logic
Notice when problems happen
Order or arrange things
Visual Understanding
Quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things
Verbal
Communicate by speaking
Skills
People who want to pursue this career have skills in these areas.
Basic Skills
Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Using math to solve problems
Problem Solving
Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
Does this sound like something you'd like to do?
1. Do some research
- Identify how your interests, values, and strengths match this occupation
- Talk to someone who works in this field or spend a day job shadowing
- Use the colleges and training directory to explore programs related to this career
2. Plan your next move
- Talk to your college and career counselor or school admissions staff
- Visit Idaho Launch
- Search for available Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers jobs on Idaho Works
Data for NSI career cards comes from the following: Idaho Department of Labor, US Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*NET, MyNextMove, and Career OneStop