Production
Computer numerically controlled tool programmer
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
Median pay
$68,120
Growth to 2035
+6%
about as fast as average
Openings a year
2,700
Time to qualify*
1.5 years
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Computer numerically controlled tool programmer
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Postsecondary nondegree award
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to computer numerically controlled tool programmer
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 programmer: 22% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core 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.
Also called: CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer) · CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer) · CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator) · CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer) · CNC Tech (Computer Numerical Control Technician) · CNC Tool Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Tool Programmer)
Outlook and AI
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers held 28,600 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 30,300 by 2035 (+6%, about as fast as average; all jobs: +3.5%).
Demand change - share increases as manufacturers increase efficiency through more computer numerically controlled (CNC), automated, and programmable machines requiring programming by these workers.
Compare with
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- Computer numerically controlled tool programmer vs. Patternmakers, metal and plastic