How To Become a CNC Machine Operator

If you’ve ever searched for jobs in the manufacturing industry, you’ve probably come across two different job titles: CNC machine operator and CNC machinist.    

But what’s the difference between the two?    

While both CNC operators and machinists work with computer numerical control (CNC) machines and equipment, there are key differences between these two roles and their importance in the machining process.

Keep reading to learn more! We’ll offer a fundamental breakdown on CNC operators and machinists, and how these roles differ.

What Is a CNC Operator?

CNC machine operators are responsible for stocking materials and running parts. They ensure specific directions are followed in order to create an end product that meets the required specifications. This is typically an entry-level position and can serve as a starting point for those who want to work their way up in the industry.

To be successful in this role, operators must have the following traits:

• Eye for detail.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Mathematical skills.
• Basic understanding of computer programming and CAD/CAM software.
• Safety conscientiousness.
• Problem-solving and multi-tasking skills.

What Does a CNC Operator Do?

CNC operators set up and operate CNC machines and equipment. On any given day, an operator may unload raw materials, prepare a test run to ensure a machine is working properly and inspect and measure finished products to ensure they meet requirements.

CNC Operator Job Description

Depending on the kind of parts they specialize in, an operator’s day-to-day responsibilities can vary. These duties could include:

• Load and unload raw materials and equipment.
• Set up and calibrate accessories and equipment.
• Keep detailed records for equipment and procedures.
• Perform necessary maintenance and cleaning on equipment.
• Supervise machines as they run and make adjustments as needed.
• Inspect the finished product to ensure it meets required specifications.
• Abide by company safety guidelines.

CNC operator salaries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for computer numerically controlled 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.

CNC operator job outlook

Skilled CNC technicians are in demand! In fact, the BLS estimates that total CNC technician employment in the United States is expected to exceed 167,000 by 2032.⁵¹

What Are CNC Machines Used For?

Before we jump into the differences between operators and machinists, let’s talk about what CNC machines are used for.

CNC machines use computer software to program the operation of factory tools and machinery. This process is used to run many different types of machinery including grinders, lathes, mills and routers. These machines can cut, drill, grind and shape a variety of materials, from metal to plastic.

CNC machines are used to create detailed, intricate parts that serve a wide variety of industries. These include:

• Aerospace.
• Transportation.
• Defense.
• Firearms.
• Commercial.
• Electronics.
• Medical.
• Optical.
• Oil & gas.
• Marine industry.

Understanding the Roles in a CNC Environment

As with many industries, there are a variety of different roles one can take on in a CNC environment. These are the three basic types of positions integral to CNC machining:

• Operator: This position is often taken on by beginners or those just getting started in the industry. In a nutshell, an operator’s job is to load stock material and run parts. They are the so-called “button pushers.”    
• Setup Operator: This person is responsible for loading the program, selecting and setting up tools, testing the program and ensuring everything works correctly. They also step in and fix things when they break or go wrong.
• CNC Machinist Programmer: This person is the one who takes a blueprint and figures out how to make the part. This involves picking out tools, determining the speeds and fees, and writing the program. Check out this article to learn more about the role.

What about machinists? Fun fact—there are no “machinists” in the traditional sense of the word in CNC environments. If you come across a job posting for a CNC machinist, it’s most likely worded as a posting for a “setup operator.” This is because setup operators are the most self-sufficient. By nature, they have to understand both programming and operating in addition to setup.

How these roles work together

So how do operators, setup operators (or machinists) and programmers work together? Typically, the programmer will give their program to the setup operator, who loads everything into the machine and sets it up. They will then hand the keys over to the operator, whose job is to make the parts.

In smaller companies, one person may be responsible for all three things. For larger companies, these are separate positions with little overlap. Programmers rarely, if ever, will be found at a machine, except for when they are testing their programs.

Historically, machinists had complete control over all the variables of their part and process (speeds, feeds, tools and method of approach). However, this is now all controlled by the programmer and the machine. The person who actually interacts with the machine, the operator, is limited to loading someone else’s program, loading and setting the tools and hitting start.

How To Prepare To Become a CNC Machine Operator

As machinists often start out as operators, you might be wondering, “How long does it take to advance to a machinist role?” This is dependent on several factors, including one’s job performance, skill level and educational background.

A great way to put yourself on the path to becoming a CNC machinist is by completing a training program, like the 36-week CNC Machining Technology program at Universal Technical Institute in Mooresville, North Carolina.¹

Created in collaboration with Roush Yates, a leading brand in the industry, this program teaches students the skills needed to pursue a career path as a CNC machine operator, from reading blueprints to the programming, setup and operation of CNC lathes and mills.

Students in this program train with industry-aligned tools and technology from brands like Mastercam, Mitsubishi Materials and Mitee-Bite. They gain the hands-on training and high-tech skills needed to prepare to pursue a career as a CNC machinist after graduation.

Completing a training program like this can help prove to employers that you have the skills they’re looking for. Many employers may also require formal training credentials, so choosing to earn in an education now could be beneficial in the long run.

How CNC Operators Differ From CNC Machinists

The role of a CNC machinist is more advanced than that of an operator. Machinists can accurately machine parts to print using a variety of machines and methods. Some of the additional duties of a CNC machinist include:

• Programming machinery.
• Quality control.
• Troubleshooting and fixing mechanical issues.
• Supervising and managing CNC operators.

Many machinists start out as operators and work their way up into this role through experience and hard work. The CNC industry is very complex—and it’s important for machinists to have a grasp of basic CNC operation before taking on more responsibility.

Successful machinists have the following skills:

• Ability to read blueprints and part drawings.
• Programming and setup of CNC machines.
• Ability to set up and operate machine tools for drilling, milling and grinding.
• Knowledge of properties of metal and other materials.
• Mathematical skills.
• Knowledge of reading calipers and gauges.
• On-the-job CNC machining experience.
• Leadership and effective management skills.                            

FAQs

1. What skills are required to become a CNC machine operator?

To become a proficient CNC machine operator, individuals need a strong understanding of CAD and CAM software, alongside solid math skills, especially in geometry and trigonometry. Mechanical aptitude, coupled with attention to detail and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues are also essential for this role.

2. How many CNC machinists will be employed in the U.S?

Skilled CNC technicians are in demand! In fact, the BLS estimates that total CNC technician employment in the United States is expected to exceed 172,000 by 2033.⁵¹

3. What is the median salary of a CNC machine operator?

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for CNC 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.    

Train To Pursue a Career As a CNC Machine Operator!    

Our CNC Machining Technology program starts every six weeks, giving students the opportunity to get going and start training for a CNC machine operator career path sooner. Plus, with the scholarships and grants and FAFSA resources available for qualifying students, earning an education might be more accessible than you think!¹⁰

To learn more, visit our CNC program page and request information or call the number 1-800-834-7308 to get in touch with one of our Admissions Representatives today.