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Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer

What Do Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Do?

Example of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Job Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.

Life As a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer

  • Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
  • Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.
  • Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
  • Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
  • Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.
  • Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.

Qualities of a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer

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

  • Machine Operator
  • Numerical Tool Programmer
  • Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist)
  • Computer Numerical Control Operator (CNC Operator)
  • Programmer

Is There 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. The BLS estimates 3,100 yearly job openings in this field.

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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.

Salary for a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer

The typical yearly salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers is somewhere between $33,870 and $83,330.

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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?

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
  • M code
  • DP Technology ESPRIT
  • Aptean Made2Manage
  • SmartCAMcnc SmartCAM

How to Become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer

Learn what Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer education requirements there are.

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Other Jobs You May 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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