Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
SOC Code: 51-9162Also 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)
Median Annual Salary
$65,670
+12.8% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
28K
Current Jobs
What Computer numerically controlled tool programmers Do
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
💰 Salary
$65,670
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+12.8%
Much faster than average
🎓 Education
Postsecondary nondegree award
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
28,300
Projected Employment (2034)
31,900
Related Careers
Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians
$70,760 •
+1.1% growth
Machinists
$56,150 •
+0.0% growth
Model makers, metal and plastic
$62,700 •
-18.2% growth
Computer numerically controlled tool operators
$49,970 •
-10.7% growth
Top Skills Required
Programming
Monitoring
Mathematics
Complex Problem Solving
Operations Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- 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.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Postsecondary nondegree award
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a computer numerically controlled tool programmers:
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist
2,174 degrees awarded •
159 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become computer numerically controlled tool programmers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do computer numerically controlled tool programmers make?
The median annual salary for computer numerically controlled tool programmers is $65,670.
What education do computer numerically controlled tool programmers need?
Most computer numerically controlled tool programmers positions require a postsecondary nondegree award.
Common degree programs include Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist.
Is becoming computer numerically controlled tool programmers a good career choice?
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers is projected to see +12.8% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is much faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 3,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for computer numerically controlled tool programmers?
Top colleges for aspiring computer numerically controlled tool programmers include
Tulsa Technology Center, Eastern Florida State College, Green Country Technology Center, Gateway Technical College, Moraine Park Technical College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to computer numerically controlled tool programmers?
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers may also be 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 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 and Turning Setup Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Milling and Turning Setup Programmer), CNC Milling Setup Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Milling Setup Programmer), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator), CNC Process Control Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Process Control Programmer), CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer), CNC Programmer (Computer Numerically Controlled Programmer), CNC Tech (Computer Numerical Control Technician), CNC Tool Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Tool Programmer), CNC Turning Setup Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Turning Setup Programmer).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.