Steps to Start Your CNC Machinist Career
You can become a machinist in a few clear steps. Start by finishing high school or getting your GED. Next, join a training program or get hands-on practice with CNC machines. Many people find this path open and rewarding because skilled machinists are in high demand. Companies need workers who can use high-precision CNC technology to make quality parts. This career gives you the chance to work with modern machines and build things that matter. If you are new to this field, you can learn and grow every day.
What Does a CNC Machinist Do
Daily Tasks
When you work as a CNC machinist, you start by looking at blueprints. You check technical drawings to see what needs to be made. You get the CNC machines ready and put in raw materials. You add cutting tools to the machine. You enter codes into the computer. You make sure the codes match the design. You watch the machine as it cuts parts. You check that the speed and tool position are correct. Sometimes, you notice problems like worn tools or wrong codes. You fix these problems fast, so work does not stop. You clean the machines and add oil. You check that the machines work well. You talk with engineers and bosses to make things better.
Here are some things you do every day:
- Use CNC machines to make parts
- Look at blueprints and CAD models
- Get machines and tools ready
- Watch the machine to check the quality
- Fix mistakes and make changes
- Do regular cleaning and checks
- Work with your team
You usually work in places that are clean and safe. These places can be factories or machine shops. Many machinists work in aerospace, cars, electronics, or medical device companies. You might help make airplane parts, car frames, or tools for surgery.
Skills Needed
You need both technical and people skills to do well as a CNC machinist. You must know how to use CNC machines and read blueprints. You need to write and understand technical notes. You use engineering ideas to solve problems. You think carefully and fix things every day. You talk and work with others to finish projects.
Here are the most important skills:
| Skill Type | Skill Description |
|---|---|
| Technical Skills | CNC operation |
| Technical Skills | Blueprint reading |
| Technical Skills | Technical writing and comprehension |
| Technical Skills | Simulation, modeling, and analysis |
| Technical Skills | CNC programming |
| Technical Skills | Additive manufacturing |
| Soft Skills | Communication |
| Soft Skills | Problem-solving |
| Soft Skills | Teamwork |
You need more skills than a CNC operator. You learn to use harder machines and fix tough problems. Knowing engineering helps you do better at work. If you like working with your hands and thinking fast, this job could be good for you.
Steps to Become a Machinist
Education Requirements
You can start becoming a machinist after high school or by getting your GED. This is the first thing you need. Most jobs want you to have this. About 41.81% of CNC machinists only have a high school diploma. If you are still in school, try to do well in math, science, and shop. These classes help you learn about measurements, blueprints, and machines.
Tip: If you want to be a machinist, focus on math. You will use math every day at work.
CNC Training Programs
After high school, you can join a CNC training program. These programs teach you how to use CNC machines and read blueprints. You also learn safety rules. Many technical schools and community colleges have these programs. Some schools use machines like Deli‘s CNC Machining Centers. You get to practice on real machines.
Here are some well-known CNC training programs and what they teach:
| Program Name | Curriculum Highlights |
|---|---|
| FANUC CNC Certified Education Training Program | CNC programming, setup and operation, engineering technology, safety procedures. |
| Online CNC Operator Training | Industrial safety, hand and power tools, basic machining, CNC technology and programming. |
You will learn more than just the basics in these programs. Many programs teach you about new technology. You might learn to use CAM software and make better programs. You can also see real-time machining on Deli’s CNC Machining Centers.
| Focus Areas | Description |
|---|---|
| Optimization of programming | Makes machining work faster and better |
| Advanced programming concepts | Teaches things like polar coordinates and scaling |
| CAM programming | Shows how CAM helps in CNC machining |
| Real-time machining | Let’s show you CAM programs work on real machines |
Note: Training on new machines like Deli’s helps you get ready for work. You will feel more sure of yourself when you start your first job.
Hands-On Experience
To be a machinist, you need to practice using machines. Employers want to see that you can run a CNC machine, not just talk about it. You can get this practice in different ways:
- Join a training program with lots of practice.
- Find an apprenticeship where you work and learn.
- Get a job in a machine shop, even as a helper.
Here is what employers want most when hiring machinists:
| Type of Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Formal Training Programs | Employers like people who finish CNC training. |
| Apprenticeships | Hands-on learning in apprenticeships is very important. |
| Prior Work in a Machine Shop | Working in a shop shows you have real skills. |
| Operating CNC Machines | Knowing how to use CNC machines is a must. |
| Proficiency in G-code and CAD/CAM | Knowing G-code and CAD/CAM is very important. |
| Ability to Read Technical Blueprints | You need to read blueprints to do the job well. |
| Certifications (e.g., NIMS) | Certifications like NIMS help you get hired. |
Many machinists pick apprenticeships. These let you earn money while you learn. You get to use real machines, read G&M codes, and check your work. Most apprenticeships last about four years and teach many skills.
During an apprenticeship, you will:
- Get real practice with CNC machines.
- Learn to read G&M codes and set tool lengths.
- Get trained in checking your work for quality.
If you want to be a machinist, remember that practice is as important as class time. Employers want people who can fix problems, use machines safely, and learn new things.
Callout: Anyone who wants to learn and work hard can become a machinist. With the right school, training, and practice, you can have a great job in this field.
Certification & Career Growth
Industry Certifications
Getting certified helps you stand out as a CNC machinist. Certifications show you follow rules and keep high standards. Many companies want workers with special certifications. These are important in aerospace or defense jobs.
Here are some common certifications you might see:
| Certification | Importance | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| AS9100 | Quality management in aerospace | Traceability, risk management, regular audits |
| ITAR | Controls defense parts | Access control, export licensing, registration with DDTC |
| NADCAP | Special process accreditation | Aerospace standards, supply chain preference |
You do not need all these certifications at first. You can earn them as you get more experience. Each one helps you work on harder projects. Some companies, like those using DELICNC machining centers, like these certifications. They show you can do high-precision work.
Tip: Ask your boss if they help pay for certifications. Many companies want machinists to keep learning.
Advancing Your Career
There are many ways to grow as a CNC machinist. When you learn new skills and get certifications, you can get better jobs and more pay. Companies always need skilled machinists, so you can feel safe about your future.
- High demand and job security: Companies need CNC machinists, so your skills matter.
- Competitive salaries: With more experience, you can be a CNC programmer or supervisor.
- Continuous learning and growth: New machines mean you can keep learning and moving up.
You might start as a beginner machinist. Later, you could become a CNC programmer, then a supervisor or manager. Some machinists teach others or work as consultants.
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Entry-level machinist | Learn to use CNC machines and controls, get hands-on experience. |
| CNC programmer | Move up by writing codes for machines, need more blueprint and programming skills. |
| Supervisor or manager | Do office tasks, watch over work, and manage staff, need extra training. |
| Educator | Teach at schools, need a love for teaching and usually a teaching credential. |
| Independent consultant | Give advice to companies on projects, lets you choose your work. |
Note: Every step builds your skills and gives you new chances. Stay curious and keep learning—your career can go as far as you want!
Job Search & Salary Outlook
Finding CNC Machinist Jobs
Are you looking for your first CNC machinist job? There are many ways to begin. You can talk to people you know in the field. Sometimes, calling old contacts or new companies helps you find jobs that are not posted. Many machinists look for jobs on websites and company pages. Social media like LinkedIn and Facebook also have job ads. You can join groups or follow companies to see new jobs.
Expected Salary
CNC machinist pay depends on where you live, your skills, and the job type. The average yearly pay for machinists in the U.S. was $56,150 in May 2024. If you work in transportation equipment, you might make about $60,300. Machinery jobs pay around $56,200, and metal product jobs pay about $51,000. New machinists start with less pay, but you can earn more as you learn and get certificates.
- Pay goes up as you get better and work longer.
- Some jobs pay more for special skills or night work.
- Getting certificates and more training can help you earn more.
The job outlook for CNC machinists is steady. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says jobs will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. Many workers are retiring, so new machinists are needed to take their place.
Deli’s Role in the Industry
Deli helps machinists by making advanced CNC machines. These machines use smart technology to help you work faster and make fewer mistakes. Deli keeps making new tools so you always have the best equipment.
You can find Deli’s CNC machines in many fields, like cars, planes, electric vehicles, and furniture. These jobs need skilled machinists to use new machines and meet demand. When you use Deli machines, you join a team that cares about quality and helps you grow.
Note: Deli’s focus on new ideas and helping customers means more jobs for machinists. You get to use the best tools and build a strong future in this field.
Ready to become a machinist? Here’s your path:
- Get your high school diploma or GED.
- Enroll in a technical school for hands-on CNC training.
- Practice your skills through apprenticeships or internships.
- Earn certifications to boost your job chances.
- Apply for jobs in industries that use advanced CNC technology.
Continuous learning helps you keep up with new machines and methods. You’ll see robots and 3D printing change how parts get made. Companies offer training and higher pay for those who learn new skills. Deli supports you with top CNC machines. Take the first step and start your journey today!
You have the power to shape your future. Start learning, keep growing, and build something amazing!
