What a CNC Programmer Does & How To Become One

Ever thought about becoming a computer numerical control (CNC) programmer?

CNC can be an exciting career for those who love to create and have an eye for detail. Becoming a CNC tech can also put you front and center in a field with opportunities across different sectors.

That includes CNC programming, which is an integral part of the machining process.

Trying to decide whether or not you should train to pursue a career as a CNC programmer? You’ve come to the right place. Follow along as we share some important information about this career path—including job responsibilities, work environment, career outlook and more!    

What Is a CNC Programmer?

CNC machines are incredibly complex and require skilled professionals to work on them.

The role of a CNC programmer is to take a print or model of a specific component and decide how to best optimize the machining of this component. The programmer must take into account many factors, such as:

• Material type for tool and speed selection.
• Geometry complexity for special tooling needs.
• Desired finish and tight tolerances.
• Optimized tool paths for efficiency and tool longevity.
• Secure component setup and tool access.

The programmer will take the part and bring it into computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software and apply tool paths to generate a G-code, which is the specific language read by the machine.

What Is CNC Programming?

In basic terms, CNC programming is the process used to create program instructions for computers to control a CNC machine and tooling. CNC machines turn a digital file into a sequence of computer instructions, which are then sent to a motorized tool such as a mill, router, grinder or lathe. These tools cut and shape various material types with great precision until they’re transformed into a finished product.

G-code

G-code is a language that tells computerized machine tools how to make something. It's the most widely used programming language for controlling automated machine tools in the manufacturing sector.

In the context of CNC programming, G-code instructs a machine on how to move, how fast to move and what path to follow.

Although modern CNC machines often come with CAM software that automatically generates G-code from a digital design, understanding G-code allows users to troubleshoot errors, optimize the machining process and customize commands for specific tasks. This level of control and understanding is critical for optimizing the efficiency and capabilities of CNC machines.

What Industries Use CNC Machinery?

CNC machining plays an important role across a wide variety of industries. According to Todd English, VP of business development and partner relations for Roush Yates Engines, some core industries that use CNC machining include:

• Automotive & racing: CNC machining can be used to machine engine parts such as cylinder heads, valve train components, pulleys, brackets, automotive interior and exterior components, suspension components, fluid system components and much more.
• Defense: Products used by the military must follow specific government regulations, which is where CNC machining, precision and consistency come into play. Defense parts are often used for aircraft components, missile components and communication components.
• Medical: CNC machines are used to create customized parts for the medical industry, including MRI machines, orthotic devices, research equipment and medical instruments.
• Aerospace: Parts made for the aerospace industry must meet the highest caliber of requirements. CNC machining is used to create several components of aircraft, such as engine components, electrical connectors, landing gear parts, sensors, seating and airframe components.
• Power generation: The power generation industry utilizes a wide variety of components that are created through the CNC machining process, such as cooling blades, inlet vanes, rotary support devices and much more.

The use of CNC machinery extends far beyond just these five industries. Others include oil and gas, industrial, electronics and even the marine industry. Many of the high-tech tools our world relies on today were created through the process of CNC machining, such as 3D printers.

What’s It Like Working in Advanced Manufacturing?                   

For Ricky Strader, CNC programmer for Roush Yates Engines and Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions, the most rewarding part of this career is being able to take simple material and turn it into a complex part that could be used by racecars, planes or even the military. Knowing he has played a role in this process brings him a great sense of accomplishment. “I take pride in what I do,” he shares.

Additionally, Ricky adds that there are many benefits that come with working in CNC, including the opportunity to make a lot of great connections. “In the end, it’s a really small industry when you look around,” he says. “The community is full of experts you can build relationships with and learn from as a programmer.”

When it comes to challenges, Ricky shares that working in the field can be demanding at times. Some parts are very tough to make, which can be difficult. “It’s a good challenge, but it can be demanding from a time standpoint. Sometimes, you have to put in more effort to figure out the process to make the parts,” he says.

The technological advancements in this industry can also bring challenges. Everything changes so fast, and programmers need to stay immersed and keep their skills sharp. Otherwise, you can quickly fall behind.

Overall, the challenges that come with this industry are worth it, according to Ricky. “In the end, it’s rewarding to be able to step back and see the end product,” he says. “The better your skills are, the more valuable you are to a company, which can lead to exciting opportunities.”⁶

CNC Programmer Job Description

CNC programming combines creativity with technical skills, suiting those who are not only fascinated by machinery but also possess a keen eye for detail and precision. The following skills and experiences are essential for anyone looking to excel in CNC programming:

• Understanding of blueprint readings, including GD&T symbols.
• Knowledge of tooling and different applications.
• Familiarity with CNC machines, including how they work, special codes, machine limitations and the various settings.
• Ability to look at a part, pre-process it and design workholding if necessary.
• Math skills.
• Documentation and technical writing skills to document the process so an operator can follow it.
• Experience working as an operator and a general knowledge of tooling, workholding and different types of machines and equipment.
• Several years of hands-on job training (preferably working on machines).

CNC Programmer Work Environment

A CNC programmer’s work environment can vary based on the specific industry they work in. However, most programmers spend part of their time in an office environment and some of their time on the machining floor, following their parts and proving out their process. Once this is complete, they may turn the parts over to production.

Ricky shares that on any given day, he may take a part, program it, go out to set up the machine and run it. He spends some of his time in the office, but a good amount of his time is spent on the floor doing hands-on work. In addition to setting up and running the machines, he will oversee the process and inspect the first pieces to ensure everything is running smoothly.

The role of a CNC programmer is similar to that of a machinist. However, a programmer will spend time doing their programming inside of CAM software for complicated parts. Simple parts can be done on the machine, but most of the work a programmer does requires the use of software.

Documentation is also a very important part of a programmer’s job. Ricky will always document his process with set-up sheets so the project can be passed on to someone else the next time. This allows Ricky to free up his time to focus on more complex projects.

CNC Programmer Career Outlook

One of the most exciting aspects of pursuing a career in the CNC industry is the job outlook. Many industries need CNC technicians, which is why there’s currently a demand for trained machinists and programmers. “So much is made with CNC machines, and there are so many industries you can get into,” Ricky shares.    

CNC machines are used around the world. This isn’t an area-specific job, so there is flexibility when it comes to location. Whether they want to take their skills to the West Coast, East Coast or even another country, there may be opportunities available to capable programmers.

According to Todd English, technical schools like NASCAR Technical Institute (NTI) provide a pipeline of graduates who are ready to go into the industry.⁸⁵ Graduates are prepared to work as machinists, and with hard work and experience, they could pursue advanced roles like CNC programmer.⁷⁷

Todd goes on to share that automation has become a buzzword in the CNC industry. While we are seeing more and more automation thanks to technology, machinists and programmers are still needed.

This is one of the many reasons it’s so important for those working in the field to stay up to date with the latest technologies. “I think it’s going to become more and more technical in the years to come,” Todd says.    

CNC Programmer 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.

How To Prepare To Become a CNC Programmer in 4 Steps

Step 1: Pursue formal education and training

A solid educational foundation is key to pursuing a CNC technician career. At a trade school, students can get hands-on instruction and practice industry skills in training environments that resemble the field.

Programs like the CNC Machining Technology program, offered by Universal Technical Institute at its NASCAR Tech campus, teach students the knowledge and skills needed in the industry! Developed in cooperation with Roush Yates Engines, this program provides hands-on training using industry-aligned tools and technology, teaching students to craft sophisticated parts from raw materials.¹⁸ In just 36 weeks, it covers crucial topics such as:

• Reading blueprints
• Interpreting geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
• Programming, setup and operation of CNC lathes and mills

Step 2: Make connections

The path to becoming a CNC programmer begins with seeking guidance and wisdom from those already established in the industry. Ricky, a seasoned professional, advises, "Make connections with those experienced in the field and ask a lot of questions."

He emphasizes the importance of asking "why" questions to deeply understand the process behind programming. "If you don’t ask, you won’t learn," he underscores, highlighting the value of curiosity and active engagement in learning.

Ricky further suggests, “Put yourself in a position where you’re working with people with the right skill set who can help you become a programmer.” He notes that the industry moves at a rapid pace, yet stresses his personal commitment to mentorship, reflecting on the help he received in his career. "This industry is fast-paced, but I’m always willing to stop and help others because I’ve had a lot of people stop and help me over the years."

Step 3: Seize learning opportunities

Graduates who have completed our program are ready to pursue jobs in the field. They can reach out to their campus’s Career Services Advisors to help them find employment opportunities.

After they’ve begun working in the field, Ricky advises seizing any training opportunity that comes their way. "If there’s training you can take advantage of, take advantage of it. It shows initiative," he states.

Ricky believes that demonstrating a willingness to learn and volunteering for projects, especially when others might not, is critical. This proactive attitude could not only enrich your knowledge but also could position you as a dedicated individual in the eyes of potential employers.

Step 4: Gain on-the-job experience

While formal education lays the groundwork, continual hands-on experience throughout a career is invaluable. Becoming a skilled CNC machinist and potentially advancing to a programmer role requires real-world practice.⁷⁷

Ricky notes that qualifying for CNC programmer jobs often involves "years of experience working on the floor as a machinist." Therefore, it's important to immerse yourself in the industry, continuously apply your skills and remain open to learning from each project and challenge you encounter.

Tips for Success

CNC programmers often meet certain criteria, such as being detail-oriented, organized, creative and tech-savvy. According to Ricky, success in this industry also requires an in-depth knowledge of tooling, machinery, applications and when to use what tool.

It’s important to stay in the know about the many changes that take place in the industry. “Keeping up with the technology in your field is very important. There are always new ways of doing things that you have to be open to,” says Ricky.

Any successful CNC machinist or programmer will tell you that sitting back and relying on the training from when they first got hired isn’t enough. This industry is constantly evolving, so taking the initiative to continue to grow their knowledge and skills is essential.

According to Todd English, “CNC machines are constantly changing. We like to leverage CNC manufacturers and software companies and bring their expertise to work with our employees so we can always stay ahead of the curve.”

“If you don’t keep up with all of the new technologies, you won’t maximize your production. Everyone is looking to become more efficient at what we do,” Todd continues.

Ricky knows the importance of showing initiative firsthand. Throughout his career, he has taken advantage of every training opportunity possible.

He took online courses to familiarize himself with CAM software as well as tooling and fixture design, which set him apart and showed that he wanted to become a programmer. He encourages those interested in this industry to go the extra mile—whether this means staying late to watch a programmer do their job or taking on an extra project.

FAQs

1. What are the job responsibilities of a CNC programmer?

A CNC programmer designs and implements the software directives that instruct CNC machines on how to cut and shape metal and plastic parts. They must create efficient, error-free code based on blueprints or design models, ensuring that the machinery can produce high-quality components with maximum productivity. They also often oversee CNC machine operation, adjusting parameters and tooling to optimize production processes.

2. What skills and qualifications do CNC programmers need?

CNC programmers need both technical and analytical skills, including proficiency in CAM software and a solid understanding of machine tooling and properties of various materials. Additionally, most positions require a certificate or associate degree in CNC programming, machining or a related field.

Interested in the CNC industry?

CNC programming takes a lot of work, but for the right individual, the career journey can be full of exciting challenges. But first, you’ve got to learn CNC machining fundamentals!

Created in cooperation with Roush Yates, our 36-week CNC Machining Technology program teaches students everything from reading blueprints and interpreting geometric dimensioning and tolerancing to the programming, setup and operation of CNC lathes and mills. To learn more, request information online or reach out to an Admissions Representative at 1-800-834-7308 today.