Numerical Control Tool Programmers

Career summary

#No alternate titles CJ

Numerical control tool programmers review blueprints to compute the size and position of the required cuts. Cuts may be linear, angular, or curved. The programmers determine the sequence of machine operations. This includes selecting tools and determining the machine speed and feed rates.

The programmer writes the computer program the machine uses to control the machining or processing of metal or plastic. Sometimes programmers and machinists work together to write a program. Programmers run a computer simulation to determine whether the program is functioning properly. They fix problems and re-test the program until all problems are solved. Programmers may modify existing programs rather than write each program from scratch.

Related careers

This career is part of the Manufacturing cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Electronics Engineering Technologists
• Engineering Technicians
• Forensic Science Technicians
• Machinists
• Manufacturing Engineering Technologists
• Manufacturing Production Technicians
• Medical Equipment Repairers
• Medical Laboratory Technologists
• Numerical Control Machine Operators
• Quality Control Inspectors
• Science Technicians
• Tool and Die Makers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to numerical control tool programmers.

• Study blueprints or written directions.
• Calculate where to cut and how much metal to remove. Compute dimensions, radii, and curves.
• Select tools and materials for the job.
• Plan sequence of cutting and finishing operations.
• Write programs to tell machine tools what to do.
• Run computer simulations of programs. Revise programs as needed.
• Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memory.
• Observe machines on trial runs or conduct simulations to make sure everything runs properly.
• Use computer-assisted drafting software to prepare layouts.
• May consult with machinists.
• Store programs on tapes or disks.

Common work activities

Numerical control tool programmers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Get information needed to do the job
• Control machines and processes
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Analyze data or information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Think creatively
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Process information
• Document and record information
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Evaluate information against standards
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Schedule work and activities
• Handle and move objects
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Develop and build teams
• Coach others
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Develop goals and strategies
• Teach others
• Establish and maintain relationships

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, numerical control tool programmers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a low level of social contact. They spend most of their time working with machines.
• Communicate with others mostly through face-to-face discussions.
• Are responsible for the work done by other operators.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of others.
• Usually work as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

• Often work indoors.
• Are often exposed to contaminants.
• Are regularly exposed to hazardous situations and equipment, such as high-speed machines.
• Daily wear protective gear, such as safety glasses, face masks, or breathing equipment.
• Often are exposed to noise levels that are uncomfortable. However, they often wear ear plugs to protect their hearing.

Work performance

• Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could produce programs that create faulty items.
• Repeat the same physical activities.
• Must let the work pace be determined by the speed of the machinery.
• Are able to make most decisions and set their daily tasks and goals independently.
• Work in a somewhat competitive atmosphere.

Hours/travel

• Usually work full time. Schedules are usually established.
• May work overtime during peak periods of production.
• May work evening and weekend shifts at factories that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Physical demands

Numerical control tool programmers frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.

It is important for numerical control tool programmers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for numerical control tool programmers to be able to:

• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.

Skills and abilities

Numerical control tool programmers need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand spoken information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Identify what must be changed to reach goals.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Make sense of information that seems without meaning or organization.

Use math and science

• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
• Use math skills to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Work with things

• Write computer programs.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Analyze needs and requirements when designing products.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.

Perceive and visualize

• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Computer Programming
• Machine Shop Technology
• Manufacturing Technology
• Robotics Technology
• Tool and Die Technology

Training

To work as a numerical control tool programmer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a formal training program; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Most numerical control tool programmers learn their skills through formal training programs. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer programs in manufacturing technology. These programs teach machine operations, automation, and computer skills. One-year programs award a certificate. Two-year programs usually award an associate degree. If you complete this type of program, you still need additional on-the-job training.

Work experience

Experience working as a machinist is very helpful for this occupation. Employers often select experienced machinists to become numerical control tool programmers.

On-the-job training

Most programmers learn additional skills on the job. At some jobs an experienced worker leads the training. At others, the employer provides a formal training program. Training typically lasts up to one year.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum may be different from your state's graduation requirements.

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Blueprint Reading
• Computer-Assisted Design (CAD)
• Computer Programming
• Drafting
• Industrial Arts
• Machining
• Metalworking

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers require tool programmers to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some prefer to hire programmers who have completed a formal training program. Employers who train programmers usually prefer applicants who have experience as machine tool operators or machinists.

Employers look for applicants who are skilled in using computers and electronics.

Costs to workers

Most workers pay for tools and special clothing. Workers may also be required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and quarterly dues.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary by employer and area of the country. The programmer's level of experience, training, and responsibility also affect wages. In general, programmers who belong to a union earn higher wages.

Numerical control tool programmers who work full time usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. Some employers also provide a retirement plan.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Positions for tool programmers are available in all parts of the country. However, jobs are most plentiful in the Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast, where manufacturing is concentrated.

Major employers:

• Machine shops
• Metalworking machinery manufacturers
• Aerospace products and parts manufacturers
• Heavy machinery manufacturers

National outlook

Demand for this occupation is strong. Companies are switching to computer-controlled machines because they improve quality and lower costs. Some software can translate part and product designs into machine tool instructions. This will reduce the demand for programmers. As long as the demand for goods remains high, tool programmers will be needed.

Job prospects are best for those with industry certifications and extensive experience.

Other resources

Association for Manufacturing Technology 
7901 Westpark Drive
McLean, VA 22102
800.524.0475
703.893.2900

Precision Metalforming Association 
6363 Oak Tree Boulevard
Independence, OH 44131
216.901.8800

Robotic Industries Association 
900 Victors Way, Suite 140
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
734.994.6088

Technology Student Association 
1904 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1540
888.860.9010

Washington Business Week 
PO Box 1170
Renton, WA 98057
253.237.3545

References

Career cluster

• Manufacturing

Career path

• Conventional (Business Operations)

O*Net  occupation

• Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic (51-4012.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Nesting Operator, Numerical Control (007.362-010) 
• Tool Programmer, Numerical Control (609.262-010) 
• Tool Programmer, Numerical Control (007.167-018) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Conventional/Investigative/Realistic
• Investigative/Conventional/Realistic

COPSystem

• Technology Professional