Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
Also called: CNC 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.
Also called: Aircraft Metals Technician, Automated Cutting Machine Operator, Automated Equipment Operator, Automation Machine Operator, CNC Gear Operator (Computer Numerical Control Gear Operator), CNC Laser Operator (Computer Numerical Control Laser Operator)
Median pay
$50,690
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$38,140 – $73,890
People employed
169,450
Holland code
RCI
Realistic · Conventional · Investigative
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 2.Are you OK being on your feet and moving most of the day?
- 3.Do you work well under tight deadlines?
- 4.Are you OK repeating the same tasks most of the day?
- 5.Are you OK with physical risk, such as hazardous equipment or conditions, with proper training?
The hard parts
- Long hours on your feet
- Tight deadlines are common
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (48 states with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators salary in every state →
What computer numerically controlled tool operators do
- 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.
Skills that matter most
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Learning
Knowledge
- Mathematics
- Production and Processing
- Mechanical
- English Language
- Engineering and Technology
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a high school diploma (O*NET Job Zone 2).
- Related work experience: none.
- On-the-job training: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from computer numerically controlled tool operators
- Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic95% · +4%
- Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic91% · −7%
- Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic90% · −8%
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic90% · 0%
- Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic89% · −3%
Change into computer numerically controlled tool operators
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic92% · $52,800
- Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic89% · $49,080
- Machinists88% · $58,750
- Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic88% · $47,180
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic84% · $50,620
Majors that lead here
- Machine Shop Technology/Assistant
- Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.