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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers in Colorado
Thinking about a career as a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers in Colorado? Below are the key facts. Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
What do Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers Make in Colorado?
For computer numerically controlled tool programmers working in Colorado, wages run about $74,210 per year (or roughly $35.68/hour).Annual wages span from $46,940 at the 10th percentile to $98,670 at the 90th percentile.
| Wage Statistic | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $46,940 | $22.57 |
| 25th percentile | $60,920 | $29.29 |
| Median (50th) | $74,210 | $35.68 |
| 75th percentile | $85,320 | $41.02 |
| 90th percentile | $98,670 | $47.44 |
The job concentration index in Colorado compared to the national average — is 0.77, meaning fewer computer numerically controlled tool programmers per worker than the national average.
National Wage Comparison
Nationally, computer numerically controlled tool programmers earn a median of $60,584 per year ($29.13/hour), higher than the Colorado median.
Employment Outlook
There are roughly 230,743 computer numerically controlled tool programmers nationwide. In Colorado alone, about 410 people work in this role. That trails the typical state, which employs around 420 computer numerically controlled tool programmers.
Top Colorado Metros for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
These are the Colorado metros with the most computer numerically controlled tool programmers in Colorado.
| Metro Area | Number Employed | Annual Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | 200 | $75,330 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 50 | $64,430 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | 50 | $86,470 |
| Boulder, CO | 40 | $80,070 |
| Greeley, CO | 30 | $68,320 |
Top States for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers Employment
View the states that employ the most computer numerically controlled tool programmers work.
| State | Number Employed |
|---|---|
| California | 2,750 |
| Michigan | 2,470 |
| Ohio | 2,420 |
| Texas | 1,540 |
| Wisconsin | 1,490 |
| Minnesota | 1,490 |
| Indiana | 1,350 |
| New York | 1,240 |
| Illinois | 1,030 |
| North Carolina | 950 |
| Pennsylvania | 920 |
| Florida | 780 |
| Iowa | 700 |
| Kansas | 700 |
| Massachusetts | 680 |
| Washington | 640 |
| New Jersey | 600 |
| Arizona | 520 |
| Connecticut | 510 |
| Oregon | 450 |
Highest-Paying States for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
The highest-paying states for computer numerically controlled tool programmers.
| State | Annual Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Washington | $81,970 |
| Connecticut | $81,780 |
| Massachusetts | $80,060 |
| California | $78,750 |
| Minnesota | $75,940 |
| Kansas | $75,870 |
| Oregon | $75,800 |
| Colorado | $74,210 |
| Missouri | $71,140 |
| Vermont | $70,160 |
Skills
The most important computer numerically controlled tool programmers skills, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Knowledge Areas
Important knowledge areas for this occupation, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Abilities
The abilities that matter most for computer numerically controlled tool programmers, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Daily Tasks
Day-to-day, computer numerically controlled tool programmers typically:
- Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
- 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 programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
- Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
- Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
- Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
- Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
- Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.
- Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
- Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.
Work Activities
- Working with Computers
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems
- Getting Information
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
- Controlling Machines and Processes
- Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
- Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
- Thinking Creatively
- Processing Information
Tools & Technology
Software and systems commonly involved: Hot technologies: Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks In-demand technologies: Autodesk AutoCAD
What Major Will Prepare You For This Career?
Related college programs include:
Related Careers
Related occupations to computer numerically controlled tool programmers include:
- Computer Programmers
- Computer Hardware Engineers
- Mechatronics Engineers
- Robotics Engineers
- Mechanical Drafters
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Also Known As
Application Engineer, CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer), CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer), CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Operator), CNC Lathe Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Programmer), CNC Lathe Programmer (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Programmer), CNC Lathe Programmer Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Programmer Operator), CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator), CNC Machine Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Machine Programmer), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist), CNC Mill Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Mill Programmer), CNC Milling Setup Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Milling Setup Programmer), CNC Milling and Turning Setup Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Milling and Turning Setup Programmer), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator).
References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics — https://www.bls.gov/oes/
- O*NET Online — https://www.onetonline.org/
- BLS Employment Projections — https://www.bls.gov/emp/
- O*NET-SOC code: 51-9162.00