CNC Machining
What is CNC Machining?
CNC machining is a term commonly used in manufacturing. CNC stands for computer numerical control. CNC machining is a manufacturing process which typically uses computerized controls and machine tools to remove layers of material from a stock piece to create a custom-designed part.
A CNC machine is a programmable machine that is capable of autonomously performing the operations of CNC machining.
Machining is a manual (non-computerized) manufacturing process of removing material from a workpiece using power-driven machine tools to shape it into an intended design. Most metal components and parts require some form of machining during the manufacturing process. Other materials, such as plastics, rubbers, and paper goods, are also commonly fabricated through machining processes.
What CNC Machinists Do
- Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications
- Set controls to regulate machining
- Maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures
- Calculate dimensions and tolerances using knowledge of mathematics and instruments
- Select the appropriate tools, machines, and materials to be used in preparation of machinery work
- Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process
- Set up, adjust, and operate all of the basic machine tools
- Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications
- Remove and replace dull cutting tools
- Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines
- Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction
- Stop machines to remove finished workpieces
- Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts
Videos
- Sara Spence, President, Spence Technologies – a woman-led manufacturing company
- Ayaka Koga, first-year apprentice at Grob Systems and a freshman at Rhodes State College
- Machinists Career Video – learn more about what machinists do
- Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic Career Video
Jobs on this Pathway include:
Please note that Ohio wage data has been cited across this website; however, the industry highlights and skills information are nationally relevant.
Wages quoted on this website refer to Northeast Ohio
Certified Production Technician
Median Wages: $37,622
To qualify for this job you should be:
- Able to read and follow instructions
- Reliable and willing to learn
- Comfortable in a manufacturing environment
Machine Operator (Manual)
Median Wages: $39,834
To qualify for this job you should be:
- Be able to use safety and personal protective equipment
- Be able to accurately use precision measurement tools
- Be familiar with manual machining processes and set up
CNC Machine Operator
Median Wages: $39,590
To qualify for this job you should be:
- Able to use machine safety and personal protective equipment
- Able to accurately use precision measurement tools
- Familiar with CNC machining processes and set-up
Machinist 1 (Entry-Level)
Median Wages: $41,128
To qualify for this job you should be:
- An experienced machine operator
- Able to machine parts from blueprints
- Able to inspect parts and adjust processes for quality
Team Lead
Median Wages: $53,482
To qualify for this job you should be:
- Be an experienced machinist
- Be able to train and mentor machine operators and machinists
- A great communicator with strong leadership skills
Machinist 2 (Advanced)
Median Wages: $53,482
To qualify for this job you should be:
- An experienced machinist
- Familiar with advanced trigonometry
- Able to make complex set-ups
Machine Shop Supervisor
Median Wages: $70,087
To qualify for this job you should be:
- An experienced machinist or team lead
- Familiar with programming and production processes
- Able to manage projects and provide leadership to a team
Engineering Technologist
Median Wages: $61,809
To qualify for this job you should be:
- An experienced machine operator
- Able to machine parts from blueprints
- Able to inspect parts and adjust processes for quality
CNC Programmer
Median Wages: $59,882
To qualify for this job you should be:
- An experienced CNC machinist
- Able to write programs to meet customer specifications
- Able to sequence, monitor, and correct machine programs and operations
Manufacturing Engineer
Median Wages: $86,326
To qualify for this job you should be:
- A credentialed Engineer (BS)
- Able to apply continuous improvement to machining processes
- Able to provide technical expertise to machining staff
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