CNC / Machining Technician
Also posted as Also posted as: CNC Machinist; CNC Operator; Machining Technician; CNC Programmer (shop-floor)
A CNC / machining technician sets up and operates CNC machines that cut metal parts to tight tolerances, reading prints, dialing in offsets, and verifying parts with precision instruments. It's a hands-on job in machine shops and production plants, and most people start with a certificate or short, hands-on training program, not a four-year degree.
Below: what it pays, what you'd do, the skills you need, and how to become one.
The role profile
Everything you need to know about this role, the same details employers use to post openings and colleges use to build training.
How much does it pay?
Explore the core responsibilities of this role, from daily operations and equipment handling to safety, quality, and performance requirements.
Set up CNC machines
Load programs, fixtures, and tooling and dial in offsets for first-part success.
Machine to tolerance
Run parts to spec, monitoring quality and tool wear throughout.
Inspect precision parts
Verify dimensions with micrometers, gauges, and CMM checks.
Read prints and GD&T
Work from technical drawings and tolerancing to produce exactly what is designed.
What skills do you need?
Three core skills sit at the heart of this role. You can learn all of them through short, hands-on training.
Machining
Producing precision parts on manual and CNC machine tools.
CNC
Setting up and operating computer-controlled machines that cut parts to tight tolerances.
Metrology
The science of precise measurement, from gauges to CMMs, with full traceability.
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