What Do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Do?
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.
A Day in the Life of a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
- Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
- Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
- Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards.
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
- Write programs in the language of a machine’s controller and store programs on media such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
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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.
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
- Programmer
- CAD CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer)
- Machining Manager
- Computer Numerical Control Programmer (CNC Programmer)
- Sheet Metal Computer Numerically Controlled 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.
What is the Average Salary of a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
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 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
How to Become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
Individuals working as a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer have obtained the following education levels:

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

Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Sector

Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers work in the following industries:

Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer might also be interested in the following careers:
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
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