what is a cnc machine operator

What Is a CNC Machine Operator?

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

If you are in the manufacturing industry, then there is no doubt you have come across a job description and wondered, “what is a CNC machine operator?” To grasp the roles of a CNC operator, you need to understand what a CNC machine is and how it works. So let’s get into the article.

What Are CNC Machines?

Female Engineer Programming A CNC Machine At Factory

CNC machines are pre-programmed equipment that creates products and materials. Examples of these machines are lathes, milling machines, precision cutters, 3D printers, and other equipment found in factories that manufacture technological instruments. CNC machine-driven tools are advantageous as they make work easier with minimal effort and less manpower.

Who Is a CNC Operator?

Industrial worker operating cnc turning machine in metal machining industry

CNC operators are specialists that work directly with computer numerical control machines to produce products based on pre-programmed specifications. They set up, operate and maintain a variety of CNC machines. Their main role is tracking the manufacturing of a product throughout its creation phase using the CNC machining process.

The CNC machine operator job description may vary depending on each employer and the job title. For example, some titles may include CNC machinists, CNC setup operators, CNC maintenance technicians, CNC machine programmers, and more.

What Are the Roles of CNC Machine Operators?

Factory worker is programming a CNC milling machine with a tablet computer.

CNC operators produce machine parts via programming, setting up, and operating CNC machines. Their duties include:

  • Maintaining equipment.
  • Keeping detailed parts of records.
  • Setting up equipment using the proper calibration measures.
  • Participating in regular safety and training classes.
  • Following all company policies and safety protocols.
  • Following the guidelines for operating machinery.
  • Performing inspections around the work area.
  • Inspecting CNC machine operations at the beginning and end of each shift.
  • Using specialized instruments to ensure they deliver quality outcomes.
  • Using proper handling techniques to load raw materials and unload castings.
  • Performing regular cleaning and light maintenance on the CNC machines.
  • Communicating logistics issues that arise during the operating process.
  • Translating blueprints and drawings into dimensions for production.
  • Studying blueprints, materials, and production plans before the machining process.
  • Recording the CNC machine’s actions throughout the machining process.
  • Keeping logs of production and quality.

You may need proper training if you are new to this field since the roles can be overwhelming. Since the duties of a CNC machinist are technical, you will have to be:

  • Attention to detail when handling the CNC machine
  • Have mathematical skills
  • Have knowledge in the field of computer numerical control

Female operator programming a CNC machine

If you are looking forward to applying for the role of a CNC operator, know that most employers today seek candidates with experience and education under the following courses:

  • Technical writing and comprehension
  • Manufacturing materials and process
  • Understanding blueprints and technical drawings
  • Job planning and bench layout
  • Hands-on operation of high-tech lathes, milling, and turning machines
  • Manufacturing machines
  • Mastercam, CAD, and CAM software experience.
  • Geometrical dimensioning and tolerancing (GD &T)
  • Cutting tool selection and assembly

Skills of a CNC Operator

Portrait of an employee working on the production line

To succeed in the computer numerical control field, you need to have the following:

1. Analytical Skills

You will need analytic skills to operate CNC machines. Ensure you can read and understand part drawings such as blueprints, models, and other new and emerging technologies.

2. Problem-Solving Skills

The CNC operator job requires problem-solving skills as you may face problems in interpreting drawings, quality issues, and handling CNC machinery that requires critical thinking skills and patience to rectify.

3. Engineering Skills

Having mechanical engineering skills is advantageous for developers who need a deep understanding of CNC machine operation. In addition, manufacturing companies look for job seekers who can clean, calibrate and maintain machine tools.

4. Math and Software skills

A CNC programmer knows computer programming and must stay updated on the latest software and machine tools. In addition, they use mathematical skills to set parameters, measure dimensions and check quality control.

5. Adaptability

A CNC machine operator should be adaptable to frequent changes in the work environment. They should prioritize competing demands and know how to deal with unexpected production delays.

CNC Operator Work Environment

Mechanical technician operative of cnc milling cutting machine center at tool workshop

A CNC operator can work in a manufacturing facility or any machine shop that is noisy, hot, or has metal parts. He/She needs to be able to:

  • Stand for long periods
  • Work with machine tool equipment
  • Adhere to equipment safety rules and guidelines
  • Work with precision measuring instruments

These skills and qualities are also transferrable to other industries, such as:

  • Quality control
  • Electrical and mechanical engineering
  • Construction
  • Automotive design

How to Qualify for the CNC Operator Entry Level Position

1. Complete Your High School Diploma

Most employers set the minimum requirement as a high school diploma or equivalent. However, you can also consider earning an associate degree in tool technology to increase your chances.

2. Gain Work Experience

While in your educational programs, consider working as an apprentice to understand your job description. Additionally, you can practice with woodworking projects that work with CNC machines to gain more experience.

Apprentices in the CNC Workplace, Group of young adults working with a female tutor.

3. Earn Technical Certifications

Most CNC operators hone their skills via certification courses. Look for certification qualifications such as from the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association to sharpen your skills.

4. Prepare Your Resume

List your qualifications, starting with the highest level of education you have completed, followed by your certifications and relevant job experiences that can help you get CNC operator job opportunities.

5. Apply for Open Positions

After meeting the above requirements, you can check for local job listings and apply for those matching your education, experience, and specialty.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles

Best Cursive Fonts for Cricut for Crafting Ideas

Cursive typesets often introduce a sense of undeniable elegance and sophistication to your Cricut endeavors. They provide a wide range ...

Best Cricut Machine for Beginners to Express Your Creativity

For enthusiasts in crafting or hobbyists, seeing all the amazing things being crafted such as stickers, cards, car decals, and ...

What is Rapid Tooling

What is Rapid Tooling, and What are Its Benefits?

For the intensive requirements of manufacturing which can sometimes be limited by time, rapid tooling has overtime been the top ...