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.
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
- 01Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
- 02Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
- 03Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
- 04Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
- 05Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
- 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
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.
| Institution | Program | Tuition | Admit | Grad 6-yr | Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Minneapolis Community and Technical College Minneapolis, MN · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $5,900 | 100% | 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 | $6,100 | 100% | 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 | $9,800 | 71% | 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 | $6,000 | 100% | 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 | $14,200 | 72% | 73% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Certificate · CIP 48.05 |
Anoka-Ramsey Community College Coon Rapids, MN · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $5,800 | 100% | 33% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Certificate · CIP 48.05 |
Hennepin Technical College Brooklyn Park, MN · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $6,200 | 100% | 38% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Not reported |
Miami Dade College Miami, FL · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $2,900 | 100% | 41% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Certificate · CIP 48.05 |
Northern Virginia Community College Annandale, VA · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $5,700 | 100% | 35% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Certificate · CIP 48.05 |
Anoka Technical College Anoka, MN · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $6,300 | 100% | 48% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Not reported |
Macomb Community College Warren, MI · Public | Machine Shop Technology/Assistant 48.0503 | $4,200 | 100% | 22% | 1 yr — 2 yr — Not reported |
