Shigoto Zukan
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How to become computer numerically controlled tool operatorseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$50,690
25th–75th pct. $44,930–$61,760
Top pay (est.)
$96,100
Top 10% $73,890
Pay in 5 years
$56,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$64,000est.
$55,000–$74,300
Outlook score
30/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
47%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
−9.4%
12K openings / yr

How to become computer numerically controlled tool operators

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
3.9
Operation and Control
3.9
Critical Thinking
3.6
Monitoring
3.6
Quality Control Analysis
3.5
Reading Comprehension
3.4
Equipment Maintenance
3.0
Complex Problem Solving
3.0

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
5.0
Mathematics
4.6
Production and Processing
4.0
Education and Training
3.7
Engineering and Technology
3.6
Design
3.4
Computers and Electronics
3.2
English Language
3.2

What the work involves

Controlling Machines and ProcessesHandling and Moving ObjectsRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

Important abilities

Control PrecisionAuditory AttentionVisualizationOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionProblem Sensitivity

Education of workers

High school diploma
48%
Post-secondary certificate
21%
Some college
17%
Associate's degree
7%
Less than high school
4%
Bachelor's degree
3%

Training before entry

6–12 months
31%
Up to 1 month
20%
1–2 years
17%
3–6 months
9%
2–4 years
7%
1–3 months
7%
None / short demo
6%
Over 10 years
3%

Related work experience

None
29%
2–4 years
28%
1–2 years
15%
6–12 months
12%
4–6 years
7%
3–6 months
7%
1–3 months
1%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as computer numerically controlled tool operators

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.