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Skilled Trades

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool 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.

Median salary (BLS)

$50,690

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$38k – $74k

Job outlook

No separate BLS projection for this specific role

AI exposure

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Qualification costsStack incomeBest cities/statesSchool ROIJob-posting fitTailored resume

Education

Typical entry: No degree required

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How to qualify

EstimateLicense required

Cost to qualify

$100–$2,600

Time to qualify

3.1 yr

Renewal

$50/yr

  1. 1

    Registered apprenticeship (paid)

    Experience

    Earn-while-you-learn training — apprentices are paid during the program; fees are tools/books, not tuition.

    $0–$2,000 · 36 months · varies by state source

  2. 2

    Journeyman exam & state/local license

    License

    Most states and municipalities test and license journeyman-level trades workers.

    $100–$600 · 1 months · varies by state · renews every 2 yr source

Estimated typical U.S. route for "Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators" — built from BLS education requirements and College Board 2024–25 average published prices (public, in-state tuition + fees + books). Not yet verified against a specific state's licensing rules — confirm with your state licensing board or program.

Typical progression

  1. Junior Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

    Entry / Junior

    $38,140

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

    Established

    $50,690

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

    Senior

    $62,290

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  • •Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
  • •Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  • •Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  • •Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.

Fields of study

Any field

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Reputation-based selection; stats shown are outcome data per school.