Manufacturing
CNC Machinist
CNC machinists are precise, technical people who enjoy operating advanced machines to create metal or plastic parts. This role suits detail-oriented individuals who like problem-solving, reading blueprints, and working with computers and tools. You should be patient, safety-conscious, and mechanically inclined. No college degree is required. It’s a great fit for job seekers wanting stable, skilled trade work with competitive pay and high demand in manufacturing.
Median wage
$24.37/hr
Physical demands
medium
Drug test
Yes
National wages & job outlook
National figures for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators, shown as published by the source below.
Entry (10th–25th pct)
$18.34–$21.6/hr
Median
$24.37/hr
Experienced (75th–90th pct)
$29.69–$35.53/hr
Projected openings / year
13,500
-11% growth, 2024–2034
Wage data: 2025. National figures; local pay varies.
Source: CareerOneStop (careeronestop.org), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration (DOLETA), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).
Starting requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic math and computer skills
- Good mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
- Ability to stand for long periods
- Willingness to learn CNC programming and safety
Training structure
Training typically takes 6 to 24 months through trade school programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training. You learn how to set up, operate, and program CNC machines, read blueprints, and inspect parts. Many employers provide paid training and help with certifications.
Top credentials
- NIMS CNC Machining
- OSHA 10
- Mastercam Certification
- GD&T Certification
Licenses & certifications
Licenses are state-specific and certifications vary by specialty. Look up the exact ones for this path in your state.
Open the license & certification finderAdvancement path
Entry: CNC machinist or operator
Mid-Level: Senior CNC machinist or programmer
Advanced: Lead machinist, supervisor, or shop manager
With experience and additional skills, you can move into higher-paying technical or leadership roles.
Typical employers
Machine shops, aerospace and defense, medical device makers, manufacturers
A day in the life
You start by reviewing job orders and blueprints. Your day includes setting up machines, loading materials, running CNC programs, and checking finished parts for accuracy. The work is focused and technical in a shop environment. You finish with the satisfaction of creating precise components used in many industries.