CNC Machinist

Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.

Also called: Machinists, CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist), Gear Machinist, Machine Repair Person, Machinist, Maintenance Machinist, Manual Lathe Machinist, Production Machinist, Tool Room Machinist, Aircraft Machinist, Auto Machinist (Automotive Machinist), Carbide Operator, CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Lathe Machinist), CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Mill Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Mill Machinist), CNC Mill Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Mill Machinist), CNC Milling Machinist (Computer Numeric Control Milling Machinist), CNC Swiss Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Swiss Machinist), Conventional Machinist, Development Mechanic, Electrical Experimental Mechanic, Electrical Instrument Maker, Electrical Machinist, Experimental Machinist, Experimental Mechanic, Fixture Maker, Fluid-Power Mechanic, Four-Slide Operator, Geothermal Heat Pump Machinist, Hydroelectric Component Machinist, Instrument Maker, Instrument Maker and Repairer, Jobber, Laboratory Machinist (Lab Machinist), Lathe Machinist, Light Fixture Maker, Machine Fitter, Manual Machinist, Mechanist, Metal Machinist, Outside Machinist, Outside Ship Machinist, Precision Instrument Maker, Precision Machinist, Printing Press Machinist, Thermometer Maker, Tool and Die Machinist, Tool Machinist, Toolroom Machinist, Turret Lathe Machinist, Wind Turbine Machinist

This is a career information profile, not an advertised job opening.

What the worker does

Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.
Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.

Skills, machines and equipment

Operation and Control
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Operations Monitoring
Active Listening
Speaking
Coordination
Complex Problem Solving
Troubleshooting
Quality Control Analysis
Reading Comprehension
Mathematics

Education and training

Most frequently reported education in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED) (35.91% of responses). This is survey context, not a universal hiring requirement. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

O*NET Job Zone 3: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job. This is broad occupational preparation context; confirm the requirements for a specific employer or apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships

Ask an employer or registered apprenticeship sponsor about current programs, eligibility, training and pay. A career profile does not confirm that a program is available.

Salary reference

47,570–67,700 USD per year · United States · 2025. Source: BLS OEWS via O*NET · 25th–75th percentiles · SOC 51-4041.

Occupational-group wage references are not guaranteed pay for this specialty or an employer's offer.

Career advancement

Explore setup, CNC programming, precision tooling, or process-improvement responsibilities after demonstrating safe, accurate machining.
Ask employers which demonstrated skills, education, or credentials are needed for the next role. Related careers are exploration options, not automatic promotions.

How Do I Get This Job?

Review the skills and responsibilities above.
Most frequently reported education in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED) (35.91% of responses). This is survey context, not a universal hiring requirement. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
O*NET Job Zone 3: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job. This is broad occupational preparation context; confirm the requirements for a specific employer or apprenticeship.
Compare real openings and confirm requirements directly with the employer.

View available jobs — availability is not guaranteed; sample listings are not real openings.

Related career information

Sources and limitations

O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. ShopFloor adapted occupational grouping, selected manufacturing-relevant occupations, and retained seven legacy guide titles. Specialties and alternative titles are grouped under O*NET occupations; these occupations can also occur outside manufacturing. Source: https://www.onetcenter.org/database.html. No wage, vacancy, certification, or video data is implied. ShopFloor advancement suggestions are general editorial guidance, not O*NET findings or guaranteed career progression. BLS wage ranges, when available, are national 25th–75th percentiles for the source occupational grouping, across industries; they are not local, apprentice, entry-level, or specialty-specific offers.

Machinists