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Career overview · SOC 51-9161

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

Also called: CNC Gear Operator (Computer Numerical Control Gear Operator) · CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator) · CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator) · CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)

Median pay (national)
$49,970
$37,160–$71,160 (10th–90th)
Employed (US)
176,950
BLS OEWS, May 2024
Outlook 2024–34
-10.7%
~13,500 openings/yr
Typical entry
High school diploma or equivalent

What the numbers say

Refit analysis ·Pay for computer numerically controlled tool operators shows a broad range: the top 10% earn $71,160 versus $37,160 at the bottom 10% — 1.9x. The median of $49,970 leaves roughly 42% of headroom to the 90th percentile, which is where seniority, specialization, and the skills below tend to pay off.
Refit analysis ·Employment is projected to change -10.7% from 2024 to 2034 — a projected decline, against +3% across all occupations. Even so, BLS projects about 13,500 openings a year, mostly to replace workers who retire or change careers.
Refit analysis ·Where you work moves the number a lot. Across the 48 states with released data, Washington pays the most for this role (median $104,120, +108% vs the national median), while Mississippi sits lowest at $39,870 — a 161% spread for the same job title.
Refit analysis ·O*NET rates Critical Thinking, Monitoring, Active Listening as the highest-importance skills here — so a resume aimed at this role should lead with evidence of those, not a generic skills list. On the tools side, O*NET flags G-code as in-demand technologies for this role.

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Top skills employers ask for

Ranked by O*NET importance for this occupation.

  • Critical Thinking
  • Monitoring
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Learning
  • Mathematics
  • Writing
  • Learning Strategies
  • Science

What they actually do

Core O*NET tasks for this role.

  • Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  • Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  • Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  • Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
  • Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems.
  • Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
  • Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
  • Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
  • Remove and replace dull cutting tools.
  • Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.

Tools & technology

  • G-code
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
  • SAP software
  • 1CadCam Unigraphics
  • BobCAD-CAM
  • Cadem CAPSMill
  • Cadem CAPSTurn
  • Cadem NCnet
  • Cadem seeNC Mill
  • CGTech Vericut CNC
  • CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator
  • CNC Mastercam
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA
  • Delcam PowerMILL
  • Direct motion computer numerically controlled CNC software

Knowledge areas

  • Mathematics
  • Production and Processing
  • Mechanical
  • English Language
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Education and Training
  • Design
  • Administration and Management