What You Need to Know About Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer
Job Description & Duties Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
List of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Job Duties
- Draw machine tool paths on pattern film, using colored markers and following guidelines for tool speed and efficiency.
- Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.
- Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
- Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
- Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
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Things a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Should Know How to Do
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.
Other Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Job Titles
- Numerical Control Tool Programmer (NC Tool Programmer)
- CAD CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer)
- Machining Manager
- Numerical Tool Programmer
- Computer Numerical Control Machining Center Operator (CNC Machining Center Operator)
What Kind of Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer Job Opportunities Are There?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 25,100 jobs in the United States for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer. 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.
Average Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Salary
The average yearly salary of a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer ranges between $33,870 and $83,330.

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 & Technology 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.

What work experience do I need to become a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer?

Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers Sector

The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

Related Careers
Those interested in being a Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmer may also be interested in:
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
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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