Occupations/51-9161.00

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

High school

Usually a high school diploma, plus some experience or short training.

AI automation risk

74%

Higher automation risk

Human characteristics

36%

Fewer uniquely human demands

Task orientation

80%

Higher automation risk

A day in this job

  • Mostly routine

    Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.

  • Mostly routine

    Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.

  • Task

    Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.

The tasks we can read here lean routine. That sits next to the AI risk rank — it is not a forecast that the job disappears.

Core tasks

  1. 01Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  2. 02Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
  3. 03Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  4. 04Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  5. 05Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
  6. 06Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems.

Model drivers (O*NET 1–5)

  • Repeating same tasks4.01
  • Degree of automation3.26
  • Time sitting1.60
  • Originality (ability)2.75
  • Conflict situations2.60
  • Hands-on objects/tools4.22
  • Outdoors / weather1.27
  • Disease exposure1.10
  • Decision freedom4.04

Top abilities

  • Near Vision3.75
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness3.75
  • Problem Sensitivity3.62
  • Information Ordering3.62
  • Reaction Time3.50
  • Control Precision3.50
  • Hearing Sensitivity3.38
  • Visualization3.25

Essential skills

  • Reading Comprehension2.88
  • Active Listening3.12
  • Writing2.62
  • Speaking3.00
  • Mathematics2.75
  • Science1.62
  • Critical Thinking3.62
  • Active Learning2.88
  • Learning Strategies2.62
  • Monitoring3.62

CIP matches

48.0503Machine Shop Technology/Assistant48.0510Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist

Schools offering related programs

11 shown

Earnings are College Scorecard medians for that program, 1 and 2 years after completion. A dash means the Department suppressed the cell or the campus is not in the field file.

InstitutionProgramTuitionAdmitGrad 6-yrEarnings

Minneapolis Community and Technical College

Minneapolis, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$5,900100%28%

1 yr $54,035

2 yr $55,512

Associate · CIP 48.05

Saint Paul College

St. Paul, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$6,100100%29%

1 yr $40,551

2 yr $42,363

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$9,80071%61%

1 yr $38,289

2 yr $34,704

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Century College

White Bear Lake, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$6,000100%31%

1 yr $35,594

2 yr $34,704

Certificate · CIP 48.05

University of Minnesota-Rochester

Rochester, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$14,20072%73%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Coon Rapids, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$5,800100%33%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Hennepin Technical College

Brooklyn Park, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$6,200100%38%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Not reported

Miami Dade College

Miami, FL · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$2,900100%41%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Northern Virginia Community College

Annandale, VA · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$5,700100%35%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Certificate · CIP 48.05

Anoka Technical College

Anoka, MN · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$6,300100%48%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Not reported

Macomb Community College

Warren, MI · Public

Machine Shop Technology/Assistant

48.0503

$4,200100%22%

1 yr —

2 yr —

Not reported