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Skilled Trades

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.

Median salary (BLS)

$68,120

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$48k – $100k

Job outlook

+13% (much faster than average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

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 Programmers" — 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 Programmers

    Entry / Junior

    $47,530

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

    Established

    $68,120

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

    Senior

    $84,220

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
  • •Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
  • •Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
  • •Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
  • •Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.

Fields of study

Any field

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