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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers in Virginia
Want to work as a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers in Virginia? Here’s what you need to know. 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 Virginia?
The computer numerically controlled tool programmers working in Virginia, the median annual wage is $65,390 per year (or about $31.44/hour).Pay can range from $45,550 at the 10th percentile to $94,590 at the 90th percentile.
| Wage Statistic | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $45,550 | $21.90 |
| 25th percentile | $54,870 | $26.38 |
| Median (50th) | $65,390 | $31.44 |
| 75th percentile | $76,240 | $36.65 |
| 90th percentile | $94,590 | $45.48 |
The job concentration index in Virginia relative to the national average — is 0.56, suggesting 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), exceeding the Virginia median.
Employment Outlook
National employment for 230,743 computer numerically controlled tool programmers in the U.S.. In Virginia alone, about 420 people work in this role. That’s right around the typical state median of 420.
Top Virginia Metros for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
These are the Virginia metros with the most computer numerically controlled tool programmers in Virginia.
| Metro Area | Number Employed | Annual Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk, VA-NC | 110 | $66,110 |
| Lynchburg, VA | 50 | $58,930 |
| Richmond, VA | 40 | $70,630 |
| Roanoke, VA | 40 | $52,070 |
Top States for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers Employment
These states have the highest employment of 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
Where computer numerically controlled tool programmers earn the most: 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
Key computer numerically controlled tool programmers skills, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Knowledge Areas
Key knowledge areas for this occupation, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Abilities
Top abilities for computer numerically controlled tool programmers, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Daily Tasks
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?
Programs that train for this career include:
Related Careers
Careers similar 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