How Do You Become a CNC Programmer? - Requirements & Description
Look at what it takes to become a computer numerically controlled programmer. Learn about job duties, education requirements, salary, and job outlook to see if a role as a CNC programmer is of interest.
Career Information at a Glance
Computer numerically controlled programmers or CNC programmers create computer programs responsible for operating the machines within metal or plastic manufacturing plants. These programs essentially tell the machines how to form the necessary parts. Check out the table below for quick info on the requirements and responsibilities of this career.
<table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Education Required</b> </td><td> High school diploma with some college coursework needed</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Educational Field of Study</b> </td><td> CNC programming or related field</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Key Skills</b> </td><td> Computer, mechanical, detail-orientation, and precision</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Job Growth (2020-2030)*</b> </td><td> 27% (computer numerically controlled machine tool programmers, metal and plastic)</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Median Salary (2020)*</b> </td><td> $57,740 (computer numerically controlled machine tool programmers, metal and plastic)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatDoCNCProgrammersDo">What Do CNC Programmers Do?</h3><p>CNC (computer numerically controlled) programmers work in manufacturing plants. They are responsible for developing programs that align with the language of a machine's controller so those programs can precisely instruct machines as to what parts/pieces should be cut and the specific shapes they should be cut into. If mistakes are present in the programs, they are required to make edits to resolve those issues. Additionally, they can be required to assess work orders or blueprints and create data to calculate the specifications of certain machines, such as speed or tool selection.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheEducationTrainingRequirements">What Are The Education & Training Requirements?</h3><p>All CNC programmers are required to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. It is highly preferred that they have also completed some post-secondary courses in CNC programming or a similar field. A certificate or courses in CNC programming or a similar field can offer greater chances of advancement in this field.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheSkillRequirements">What Are The Skill Requirements?</h3><p>Since this role is highly technical, skills such as precision and detail orientation are very useful to possess. Additionally, strong computer skills are also required to meet the demands of the role. Solid mechanical skills and a background in machinery would be of added benefit.
</p><h3 id="section---HowMuchCanIEarn">How Much Can I Earn?</h3><p>The median annual salary for CNC programmers as of May 2020 was $57,740, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These programmers are most apt to work full-time. Overtime is often granted to employees in this role, as machinery often runs on a continuous cycle to include nights and weekends.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatIsTheJobOutlook">What Is The Job Outlook?</h3><p>The BLS projects a growth of 27% for CNC programmers from 2020 to 2030, despite an expected decrease in demand for metal and plastics workers, as well as production occupations. This growth for CNC programmers is largely due to the widespread shift of many companies to CNC machinery. As more companies transition, the demand for programmers will increase to meet demand.</p>