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Advanced Manufacturing

CNC Machine Operator

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.

Annual openings

127

Median wage

$55,270

Typical education

High school (GED), plus additional training. You’ll need courses in technical drawings reading and mechanical technology in order to succeed in your job.

Growth 2026–2032

+1%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED), plus additional training. You’ll need courses in technical drawings reading and mechanical technology in order to succeed in your job.

Credential requirement

Completion of a training program, apprenticeship, and a National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Level I Certification are valued

Work experience

CNC machinists need some kind of training and previous hands-on experience in order to land a job. Some are promoted from technician or machine operator positions, while others are hired from certification or training programs.

Employer competency information

  • Feedback from employers identifies the following competencies as being critical to success: mechanical aptitude, attention to detail (including the ability to build something to specifications and tolerance), diagnosing and problem solving, basic computer skills, teamwork, a focus on safety, and accountability.
Are you a natural with computers? If so, this job might be for you. As a CNC machinist, you'll run computer-controlled machining tools that are accurate down to a few micrometers. It's all about refining materials for specific, essential purposes inside machines. You’ll be a leader on the production line, working with large machines to produce the highest-quality product possible.
CNC machinists work with computer-numerical controlled (CNC) machines, or machines that are directed by a computer program. You’ll focus on the operation and maintenance of the machine, from starting it to unloading the finished product. The screens and gauges on the machine will let you know if the machine is working properly, and it will be up to you to adjust and fix it if necessary, so it’s important that you know how to read and understand the data from the machine. In order to fix the equipment, you’ll need to know the basic mechanics of its operation, and how to perform the right maintenance work. This means you’ll need steady hands, a good knowledge of tools, and some experience with mechanical technology.
Reading technical drawings and understanding other forms of instruction from engineers and designers is important. It’ll help you set up the machine and recognize improper function. As an essential part of the assembly line, you’ll need strong communication, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. You’ll report to a front line or production manager, but as one of the most senior employees on the floor, you’ll need to be able to handle problems and issues on your own.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Manufacturing

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  2. Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  3. Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  4. Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
  5. Listen 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.
  6. Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
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