Life As a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Job Description Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
A Day in the Life of a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
- 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 instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine’s controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes.
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
- Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
- Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards.
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
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Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Required Skills
When polled, Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
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.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Types of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Jobs
- Applications Engineer
- Numerical Tool Programmer
- Computer Numerical Control Machining Center Operator (CNC Machining Center Operator)
- Numerical Control Tool Programmer (NC Tool Programmer)
- Metal Numerical Tool Programmer
Job Opportunities for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 25,100 jobs in the United States for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer. 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.
How Much Does a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Make?
The typical yearly salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers is somewhere between $33,870 and $83,330.

Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers who work in California, Connecticut, or Massachusetts, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers in different U.S. states.
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 & Technology do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers:
- 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
- Aptean Made2Manage
- M code
- DP Technology ESPRIT
- SmartCAMcnc SmartCAM
How do I Become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?
Learn what Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer education requirements there are.

How many years of work experience do I need?

Who Employs Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers?

The table below shows the approximate number of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers employed by various industries.

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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