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Production

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
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Median pay

$65,670
Median annual pay for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

12.8%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

3,100
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

28,300
Estimated U.S. employment for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+3,600
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

Postsecondary nondegree award
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Monitoring
  2. 2Mathematics
  3. 3Active Listening
  4. 4Critical Thinking
  5. 5Reading Comprehension
  6. 6Speaking

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Production and Processing
  2. 2Engineering and Technology
  3. 3Mathematics
  4. 4Design
  5. 5Computers and Electronics
  6. 6English Language

Abilities

  1. 1Near Vision
  2. 2Information Ordering
  3. 3Problem Sensitivity
  4. 4Perceptual Speed
  5. 5Mathematical Reasoning
  6. 6Category Flexibility

Career interests

  1. 1Conventional
  2. 2Realistic
  3. 3Investigative
  4. 4Enterprising
  5. 5Artistic
  6. 6Social

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Cautiousness
  4. 4Intellectual Curiosity
  5. 5Achievement Orientation
  6. 6Perseverance

Work activities

  1. 1Working with Computers
  2. 2Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  3. 3Getting Information
  4. 4Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  5. 5Controlling Machines and Processes
  6. 6Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

Work context

  1. 1Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  2. 2Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  3. 3Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
  4. 4Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  5. 5Frequency of Decision Making
  6. 6Time Pressure

Representative tasks

  • 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.

Software and tools

Autodesk AutoCAD · in demandMicrosoft Office software · in demandDassault Systemes SolidWorks · in demandG-code · in demandMastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software · in demandAutodesk Fusion 360 · in demandMicrosoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Outlook · hot technologyMicrosoft PowerPoint · hot technologyMicrosoft Word · hot technologyExtensible markup language XML · hot technologySAP software · hot technology

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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