Production
Computer numerically controlled tool operator
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.
Median pay
$50,690
Growth to 2035
−9%
declining
Openings a year
12,500
Time to qualify*
6 months
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Computer numerically controlled tool operator
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to computer numerically controlled tool operator
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Hazardous conditions
Computer numerically controlled tool operator: 50% usually work over 40 hours a week
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.
- 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.
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) · CNC Set Up Operator (Computer Numerical Control Set Up Operator) · Machine Operator
Outlook and AI
Computer numerically controlled tool operators held 170,000 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 154,100 by 2035 (−9%, declining; all jobs: +3.5%).
Productivity change - share decreases as computer-controlled machine tool programmers are able to control more machines at once, which means fewer operators are needed to handle them.
Compare with
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