CNC Operator
Quick Facts
Median Salary$48,281
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth+6.12%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A CNC Operator programs and operates a computer controlled lathe used to cut wood, plastic, metal with extreme precision.
Core Tasks:
- Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
- Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
- Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
- 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.
- Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.
- Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.
- Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.
- Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.
- Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.
- Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
- Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.
- Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.
- Set up future jobs while machines are operating.
- Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.
- Control coolant systems.
- Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.
- Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.
What to expect as a CNC Operator
1Earn a High school or GED Diploma
41% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See CNC Operator related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
2490 openings for CNC Operators
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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