What is a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Definition Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
What Do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Do On a Daily Basis?
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
- Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
- Write programs in the language of a machine’s controller and store programs on media such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
- Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
- Draw machine tool paths on pattern film, using colored markers and following guidelines for tool speed and efficiency.
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
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Things a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Should Know How to Do
Below is a list of the skills most Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers say are important on the job.
Programming: Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Types of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Jobs
- Machining Manager
- Programmer
- Sheet Metal Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Programmer
- Computer Numerical Control Operator (CNC Operator)
- Metal Numerical Control Programmer
Are There Job Opportunities for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers?
In the United States, there were 25,100 jobs for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 16.3% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4,100 new jobs for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 3,100 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer are Utah, Nevada, and South Dakota. Watch out if you plan on working in Washington, Vermont, or Maryland. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Average Salary
The salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers ranges between about $33,870 and $83,330 a year.

Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers who work in California, Connecticut, or Massachusetts, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $45,620 |
Arizona | $59,550 |
Arkansas | $55,220 |
California | $66,560 |
Colorado | $49,040 |
Connecticut | $65,560 |
Florida | $53,780 |
Georgia | $49,990 |
Idaho | $45,030 |
Illinois | $54,900 |
Indiana | $49,490 |
Iowa | $46,070 |
Kansas | $59,350 |
Kentucky | $47,230 |
Louisiana | $47,430 |
Maine | $48,260 |
Maryland | $61,850 |
Massachusetts | $65,150 |
Michigan | $52,150 |
Minnesota | $61,000 |
Mississippi | $43,170 |
Missouri | $55,050 |
Nebraska | $48,870 |
Nevada | $58,310 |
New Hampshire | $59,730 |
New Jersey | $55,980 |
New York | $55,720 |
North Carolina | $46,940 |
Ohio | $52,800 |
Oklahoma | $54,320 |
Oregon | $59,780 |
Pennsylvania | $55,680 |
Rhode Island | $54,190 |
South Carolina | $51,870 |
South Dakota | $50,810 |
Tennessee | $53,640 |
Texas | $58,660 |
Utah | $47,440 |
Vermont | $55,280 |
Virginia | $52,870 |
Wisconsin | $51,260 |
What Tools do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Extensible markup language XML
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Dassault Systemes CATIA
- Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- PTC Creo Parametric
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- 1CadCam Unigraphics
- G code
- Mastercam
- Vero Software SURFCAM
- M code
- DP Technology ESPRIT
- Aptean Made2Manage
- SmartCAMcnc SmartCAM
How do I Become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?
What education or degrees do I need to become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Where Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Are Employed

The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

You May Also Be Interested In…
Those thinking about becoming a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
Image Credit: US Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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