8 Signs You Might Enjoy Working as a CNC Machinist

Considering a career as a computer numerical control (CNC) machinist?

That could work if you love computer technology, have an eye for detail and are good at problem-solving!

Being a CNC machinist is a hands-on career using manufacturing technology that produces parts for a variety of industries. So, if you want to learn more about this industry, keep reading. We'll reveal eight signs that a career as a CNC machinist may be right for you.

What Is a CNC Machinist?

CNC technician job description

First, it’s important to understand exactly what a CNC machinist does.

CNC machinists work with CNC machinery to create tools and parts from metal, plastic and other materials. Some choose to specialize in a specific type of machinery, such as milling machines, while others work with a variety of different machines.

Depending on the industry, CNC machinists may be responsible for different day-to-day tasks. They typically ensure their machines are set up correctly, function properly and are producing parts that meet the required specifications.

Read: What Is a CNC Maintenance Technician?

8 Reasons To Become a CNC Machinist

If the following eight traits describe you, then you might have the potential to become a CNC machinist!

1. You love working with computers

You enjoy the challenge of troubleshooting computers when things go wrong. You’re fascinated by computer code and want to learn more. If both criteria apply to you, you might enjoy a career as a CNC machinist.

CNC machines are a fusion of the physical and the digital. Tools such as lathes and mills shape raw materials like metals and plastics into parts to exact specifications.

Computers provide the instructions for precise control of these instruments. In fact, computers factor into every step of the CNC machining process. Engineers come up with the concepts that are then modeled as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) drawings. These 3D digital representations are then translated into G-code, which controls the speed, movement and other variables that each tool follows.

A CNC machinist must identify and troubleshoot any potential problems. Having computer skills and the drive to understand programming further is essential for any CNC machinist.

2. You pay attention to details

Detail-oriented and take pride in perfection? In CNC machining, even fractions of a millimeter count. “Close enough” isn’t in a CNC machinist’s vocabulary.

Whether it’s knowing the correct rates that raw materials need to be fed into the machines, reviewing CAD/CAM drawings for errors or making adjustments to the tools, there’s no room for error. It’s a skilled trade that requires unwavering attention, so raw materials aren’t wasted, tools aren’t broken and every step is followed correctly.

3. You love creating things

If you want to become a CNC tech, you should get excited about the process of creating new things. There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from seeing a block of metal turned into a part made to exact specifications. Where there was once nothing but a hunk of metal is now something tangible and practical.

Within those blocks of raw materials are the ideas that engineers and CNC machinists bring into the world. A CNC machinist plays an important role in the creation process. You start with a concept and take the necessary steps to turn it into a physical reality. It’s like being an alchemist, sculptor and computer programmer all at once.

4. You’re great at time management

As a CNC tech, being organized and having the motivation and strategic prowess to constantly innovate productivity is key. There are multiple steps in the CNC machining process, and there are often opportunities to make it even more efficient. Being knowledgeable about how long each step may take, the load times of raw materials and the time needed to set up different tools are all important in figuring out how long a job is going to take.

5. You have excellent problem-solving skills

CNC machining is an automated process, but computers have their limitations. There are always going to be things that need to be adjusted or unforeseen issues. It might be a new tool that needs to be set up or figuring out why a job that has run perfectly multiple times is now having problems.

Being a CNC machinist requires many hands-on skills but also requires brain power. Having an analytical mind and being able to approach a problem from different angles is important.

6. You have the ability to adapt

As a CNC machinist, you’re going to face challenges. It’s possible that a machine hasn’t been set up correctly by the person before you, the machine is getting jammed or the tools are feeling the wear of repeated production runs.

Things aren’t always going to go according to plan. And it’s important to be able to adapt to the situation, no matter what comes up.

7. You’re a team player

Machine shops are about collaboration. If you go in thinking you know it all, you’re likely not going to go far and may not make many friends. But if you love sharing ideas and learning from those with more experience, become a CNC machinist so you can connect and grow with others in the same skilled trade.

Usually, work just involves you and a machine. But ultimately, you’re all a part of the same team in making your work a success.

8. You have a good work ethic

Working in a machine shop isn’t always easy. It requires both mental and physical stamina in setting up and running the machines, as well as solid problem-solving abilities.

Many of the tasks are also repetitive. Performing them takes discipline, patience and being detail oriented. It takes focus and the ability to face any challenge. For those who thrive in such work environments, a career as a CNC machinist may be a good fit.

Read: 6 of the Most Common CNC Machines

How To Become a CNC Machinist

Having a high school diploma or GED diploma is usually a requirement for becoming a machinist, as well as specific training, whether that’s done on the job or through a formal training program.

The CNC Machining Technology program offered at Universal Technical Institute’s NASCAR Tech campus is designed to prepare students to pursue entry-level positions in the field after just 36 weeks.^2,85 Created in conjunction with industry leader Roush Yates, this program teaches students everything from reading blueprints to the programming, setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes.

Some of the courses taught in the program include:

• Basic Machine Shop Skills
• Mathematics, Materials, and Maintenance
• Interpreting Blueprints/Job Layout
• Manual Machining on the Lathe
• Manual Machining on the Mill
• CNC Turning I & II
• CNC Milling I & II
• CAD and CAM

Upon completion of the program, students will have the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to begin their career paths in the CNC industry. Learn more in this video:

Read: What Are CNC Machine Operators? How To Become One

CNC Machinist Jobs

At this point, you might be wondering, “What jobs are available in the CNC industry?” Here are some examples of entry-level and advanced roles commonly pursued by those trained in computer numerical control:⁷⁷

Entry-level

• CNC machinist
• CNC operator
• Machined parts inspector

Advanced

• CNC mill operator
• Quality control inspector
• Design engineer
• Mechanical assembler
• CNC programmer

Most of our grads start out working as entry-level technicians or in other entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, they may be able to advance in their career with experience and hard work. To learn more about these positions, read this CNC career guide.

Read: What Is CNC Programming? CNC Programmer Description

FAQs

Have questions about CNC machining careers? Check out the answers to these frequently asked questions:

1. What are CNC machinist requirements?

Requirements for becoming a CNC machinist can vary depending on the employer. In most cases, a high school diploma or GED diploma is required to become a CNC machinist.

In addition to this, machinists will need to complete some form of training, whether it’s on the job or through a training program, like our CNC Machining Technology program. The benefit of completing a program like this is the ability to gain foundational skills in a short amount of time—which can catch the eye of potential employers and give applicants an advantage when applying for jobs.

2. How long is CNC machinist school?

The length of time it takes to complete CNC machinist school varies depending on the institution. At NASCAR Tech, you can train to pursue a career as a CNC machinist after just 36 weeks!

3. How long does it take to become a CNC machine operator?

CNC operator positions are often taken on by beginners or those just starting out in the industry. Generally, they are responsible for loading stock material and running parts. The length of time it takes to become an operator depends on the employer. Some operators complete on-the-job training after high school, while others start in operator positions after completing a CNC machining training program.

It’s important to know that operators, set-up operators (or machinists) and programmers play different roles in a CNC environment. Check out this blog on the differences between each position.

4. How much does a CNC machinist make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for computer numerically controlled tool operators in the United States was $48,550 in May 2023.³⁴ This means half of CNC machinists earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

If you’re curious to know how income for CNC machinists varies based on location, check out this state-specific salary guide.

5. Is there CNC machinist certification?

Certification can be valuable to a technician’s career, especially for those working in the diesel and automotive industries. The CNC program at NASCAR Tech doesn’t offer certifications, but the coursework aligns with the guidelines set by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills to ensure students are learning what the industry requires. After completing their training, students can choose to pursue certifications if they wish.

6. Is CNC machining dangerous?

Without proper knowledge and training, CNC machining can be dangerous. This career involves working with heavy equipment, cutting tools and electrical components—which can all pose dangers if mishandled.

For this reason, there is a strong emphasis on safety in our CNC program. Before students start working with equipment, they take a machine shop introductory course and learn how to safely operate equipment in a machining environment.

7. What type of machinists are there?

CNC machinists can take their skills to a variety of different industries, which can make this an exciting career path. Some of the many industries machinists can work in include transportation, aerospace, electronics, defense, optical, medical, oil and gas, and marine — just to name a few.

Read: NASCAR Tech Grad Blazes a Trail in the Aerospace Industry

Get CNC Machinist Training at NASCAR Tech!

Being a CNC machinist can be a great career for those with the right skill set and attitude. If you think you have what it takes, programs such as the CNC Machining Technology program at UTI’s NASCAR Technical Institute campus in Mooresville, North Carolina, may be the next step toward becoming a CNC machinist.

If you want to enroll in industry-aligned career training, sign up today! Want to learn even more before making a decision? Request more information on our program page or call 1-800-834-7308 to reach an Admissions Representative!