All About Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers
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.
What Do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Do On a Daily Basis?
- Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
- 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.
- Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
- Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.
- Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
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Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Skills
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
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.
Related Job Titles
- Machine Shop Lead Man
- Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator (CNC Machine Operator)
- Numerical Control Tool Programmer (NC Tool Programmer)
- Process Engineer
- Numerical Control Nesting Operator (NC Nesting Operator)
Job Demand 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.
Do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Make A Lot Of Money?
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 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
Becoming a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
What kind of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer requirements are there?

How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?

Where Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Are Employed

Below are examples of industries where Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers work:

Related Careers
Those interested in being a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer may also be interested in:
Career changers with experience as a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
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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