CNC machinist
Computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinists make precision parts for the engineering and manufacturing industries.
Also known as: CNC operator
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£42,000 a year
- Typical hours40 to 44 a week
What you'll do
As a CNC machinist, you could:
- program CNC machine tools in line with engineering drawings
- work out the most efficient order to carry out machining tasks
- set cutting speeds and tolerance levels
- monitor machining operations and make adjustments where necessary
- troubleshoot problems
- check machined parts to make sure they meet quality standards
- carry out routine machine maintenance
- work with engineers to improve production processes
Working environment
You could work in a factory or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- maths knowledge
- the ability to work on your own
- observation and recording skills
- analytical thinking skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a cNC machinist
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could do a college course to learn some of the practical engineering skills you'll need in this job.
Courses include:
- advanced manufacturing and engineering
- performing engineering operations
- mechanical engineering
- T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with an employer. These include:
- Engineering and Manufacturing Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship
- Engineering Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Machining Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
If you're working in the furniture manufacturing industry, you could do a Furniture CNC Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
Direct application
You can apply directly for jobs if you've got experience of working with CNC machine tools in engineering or manufacturing.
Foundation apprenticeship
You can apply for a foundation apprenticeship if you're aged 16 to 21.
If you're aged 22 to 24, you can apply if you:
- have an education, health and care (EHC) plan
- are in care or have been in care
- are in prison or have been in prison
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- no specific qualifications or experience to apply for a foundation apprenticeship
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Career path and progression
With experience, you could take up a supervisory role or go into workshop management.
You could also move into:
- inspection and quality control
- training
- machine software programming
Guides for this industry
Related roles
- Job roleEngineering operative
- Job roleToolmaker
- Job roleWood machinist
- Job roleProduction manager (manufacturing)
- Job roleFurniture maker
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