There are many ways to become a CNC machinist. The most common way is through an apprenticeship, which takes anywhere from two to four years. During this time, you’ll learn the basics of the trade while working under the supervision of a more experienced machinist.

You can also enroll in a vocational-technical school program that focuses on machining and get your associate degree in this field. After you have one year of experience as a machinist, you can apply for an entry-level job at companies that produce parts using CNC machines.

Becoming a CNC machinist requires a combination of education and training. The minimum requirements for this position include taking a high school diploma or GED, earning an associate’s degree in engineering technology and machining, and completing at least one year of on-the-job training. In addition to these basic requirements, there are several optional certifications that can help you gain more experience in the field.

It is also important to have good communication skills, as you will be working with many different people throughout your career. This includes other machinists, engineers and designers, as well as those who work in management positions. If you want to become a CNC machinist, it is important that you have good problem solving skills and are able to work independently without supervision from others.

How To Become Cnc Machinist

Computer numeric controlled (CNC) machines are critical in the operations of the manufacturing industry. These machines cut, shape and finish raw materials into finished products, and they require the input and skills of CNC machinists to operate optimally. If you have a strong desire to work in technology and design and have a passion for precision and complex tasks, a career as a CNC machinist could be the right path for you. In this article, we will discuss what a CNC machinist does, the steps to become one and the average salary and job outlook for CNC machinists.

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What is a CNC machinist?

As tools and parts production rely increasingly on computer programs, CNC machinists have become highly sought-out professionals. CNC machinists handle heavy machinery designed for the production of parts and tools as well as both metal and plastic components. They are responsible for the setup and operation of CNC machinery. They are also central to the inspection of the final product, ensuring it is free from defects and ready for the market or the next production stage. Most of the parts produced by CNC machinists are used in the aerospace, automotive, power and manufacturing industries.

What do CNC machinists do?

A CNC machinist’s job often involves monitoring multiple machines and performing repetitive tasks. Here are some of the primary duties and responsibilities of CNC machinists:

• Preparing and operating CNC machines to perform tasks such as drilling, milling and grinding
• Obtaining certification by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
• Reading and interpreting blueprints and mechanical drawings for the impending task
• Translating instructions into computer commands so the machines can perform the correct function
• Preparing and loading raw materials and parts onto the machines
• Preparing a test run to check if the machine produces the right output
• Setting machines to complete the full cycles for the mass fabrication of parts
• Monitoring the machines while they execute the tasks and make adjustments accordingly
• Performing quality control checks by inspecting finished products for defects
• Maintaining and cleaning CNC machines to ensure functionality
• Ensuring compliance with all safety procedures

How to become a CNC machinist

The job of CNC machinists is highly technical and requires intensive training and preparation to master. To become a CNC machinist, you may either use the academic route or the vocational path. Follow these steps:

1. Research the career duties of a CNC machinist

There are different types of machinist jobs. If you are looking to embark on a career as a CNC machinist, knowing the specific career path you wish to take is essential. Typically, there are three types of CNC machinists:

• Operating machinists
• Set-up machinists
• Programming machinists

The duties of an operation machinist are to ensure the optimal functioning of machines. Set-up machinists are responsible for monitoring the equipment, making adjustments and performing other tasks to ensure flawless operations. Programming machinists specialize in coding CNC programs and tinkering with existing programs to achieve the smooth production of parts that meet the specifications set forth. Knowing what type of job is most interesting to you will enable you to make the right decision on what combination of courses to pursue.

Read More: Career Paths: Definition and How to Choose One in 9 Steps

2. Take preparatory courses

Most employers require that CNC machinists possess a minimum of a high school diploma. After high school, pursuing a postsecondary CNC machining program is recommended. This training entails structured classroom lessons and practical training. To prepare yourself for the CNC training program, you may take courses in blueprint reading, technical drafting, machine tooling and metalworking. Extra lessons in algebra and trigonometry will also enhance your visibility in a crowded field of applicants.

3. Pursue a certificate or degree

Whereas a degree is not a must-have qualification to work as a CNC machinist, employers prefer to hire someone with a degree. If you opt for a certificate, it only takes a few months to learn basic skills such as measurement, inspection and blueprint reading. Full CNC machinist degree programs are offered by technical colleges and typically take two academic years to complete. These programs entail educational classes and industry-specific courses to prepare students for the job market.

Ordinarily, educational programs cover subjects such as engineering, maths and computer technology. You are also likely to learn about CAD/CAM and design technology.

4. Complete a formal apprenticeship

Becoming a proficient machinist takes time and intensive on-the-job training. One way of gaining hands-on experience is through formal apprenticeships. An apprenticeship is an entry-level program that lasts up to four years, depending on your training and interest. Apprenticeships help students apply theoretical knowledge learned in the classroom to a practical environment through the hands-on experience of operating actual machines. Some of the lessons learned in an apprenticeship program are:

• Safety practices
• The basics of CNC machine operation
• Metallurgy
• Computer-aided design
• CNC programming

It is important to note that employers seeking to hire CNC machinists will take a keen interest in whether a candidate has previous experience on the job. Going through an apprenticeship might therefore play to your advantage in the job search. To get apprenticeship opportunities, your school might help you link with potential employers, such as local manufacturers.

Read More: How Do Apprenticeships Work?

5. Obtain certification

Successful completion of an apprenticeship makes you qualified for certification as a credentialed worker, regardless of whether you hold a degree or not. Certification is an indication that you have the right skills set to operate CNC machines. Certification for CNC machinists is offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), where candidates must sit for a performance-based written and practical exam. Certification is offered at three levels:

• CNC set-up programmer
• Certified journeyworker
• NIMS certified machinist

Whereas certification is not a mandatory requirement, obtaining an endorsement from NIMS has several advantages:

• It increases your employability.
• It enhances your professional image.
• It offers networking opportunities.
• It may be important for career advancement.
• It shows you are regularly updating your skills.

Related: What are Certifications? Definition, Benefits, Types of Certifications and Examples

6. Put your skills to work

After becoming a certified CNC machinist, the next step is to find a place where you can deploy your skills and knowledge. You can achieve this by looking for a job in the manufacturing sector. Some of the potential employers of CNC machinist include:

• Original equipment manufacturers
• Aerospace industry
• Automotive industry
• Shipbuilding
• Power generation companies
• Engineering maintenance
• Rail transport
• Defense
• Medical
• Oil and gas
• Marine

Alternatively, some CNC machinists opt for self-employment by working as consultants. Depending on your financial muscle, you might also decide to acquire a machine to perform small industrial tasks for income.

Read More: 9 Tips to Creating a Self-Employed Resume

Job outlook and average salary for CNC machinists

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for CNC machinists is expected to grow by 3% annually at least until 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. Most of these jobs will arise from the need to replace workers who leave the field through retirement or natural attrition. Furthermore, as technology improves, the market demand for CNC machinists who know how to operate the specialized manufacturing equipment is likely to increase.

The BLS reports that CNC machinists earn an average of $44,420 per year or $21.99 per hour as of 2019. These figures may vary depending on the state, company size and industry as well as the job candidate’s level of experience. Expectedly, more experienced machinists earn more than entry-level machinists. Other estimates put the annual salary of CNC machinists at $64,981, which translates to $31.30 per hour.