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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
Production · SOC 51-9161
2.1% AI Exposure — Medium
$50,690
Median Annual Salary
Average
O*NET Outlook
—
Proj. Annual Openings
169,450
Employment (OEWS 2025)
98/100
AI Resiliency Score
AI exposure from the Anthropic Economic Index (2025); salary from BLS; skills from O*NET. See /sources.
AI Exposure Analysis
AI Exposure2.1%
AI Resiliency98/100
Exposure BandMedium
Sector Avg. Exposure0.8%
Top Skills
1.Operations Monitoring
2.Operation and Control
3.Critical Thinking
4.Monitoring
5.Quality Control Analysis
O*NET occupation profile
What this work involves
Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
Common titles: CNC Gear Operator (Computer Numerical Control Gear Operator), CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator), CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)
Representative Tasks
- •Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
- •Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
- •Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
- •Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
- •Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
Detailed Work Activities
- •Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
- •Program equipment to perform production tasks.
- •Install mechanical components in production equipment.
- •Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
- •Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
Tools & Technologies
Autodesk AutoCAD · hotDassault Systemes SolidWorks · hotSAP software · hot1CadCam UnigraphicsEditCNCERP softwareFaceTimeKCD cabinet design softwareMastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing softwareSigmaTEK SigmaNEST
Related Occupations
Employment Projections & AI Exposure
15
Occupations Shown
0.5%
Avg AI Exposure
1
Bright Outlook
Sector Comparison
| Metric | This Career | Sector Average |
|---|---|---|
| AI Exposure | 2.1% | 0.8% |
| Outlook | Average | 4% Bright |
| Median Salary | $50,690 | N/A |
| AI Resiliency | 98/100 | N/A |