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Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal & Plastic

Also called: Computer Numerical Control Programmer (CNC Programmer), Process Engineer, Programmer, Programer

Where in the military? In the military: see titles from the Navy.

What they do:
Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
On the job, you would:
  • Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
  • Revise programs and/or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
  • Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data in order to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.

Knowledge

Math and Science
  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
  • mechanical
  • design
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
  • manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
  • English language

Skills

Basic Skills
  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
  • figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Abilities

Math
  • choose the right type of math to solve a problem
  • add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Visual Understanding
  • quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things
  • see hidden patterns
Ideas and Logic
  • notice when problems happen
  • order or arrange things
Verbal
  • listen and understand what people say

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include
data, detail, and regular routines.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Attention to Detail
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Dependability
  • Persistence
  • Adaptability/Flexibility

Technology

Examples of the technology used in this career will be available soon.

Education

Education: (rated 3 of 5)
some college or
associate's degree
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training Find Certifications Registered Apprenticeship

Job Outlook

Average Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
Salary
$45,890
per year, on average
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about computer numerically controlled machine tool programmers, metal and plastic.