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

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$68,120
25th–75th pct. $58,270–$81,890
Top pay (est.)
$130,400
Top 10% $100,320
Pay in 5 years
$78,200est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$89,700est.
$77,200–$104,200
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
60%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+5.9%
2,700 openings / yr

How to become computer numerically controlled tool programmers

Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award
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 Programmers

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
4.0
Reading Comprehension
3.6
Monitoring
3.5
Critical Thinking
3.5
Active Learning
3.4
Mathematics
3.4
Complex Problem Solving
3.1
Operation and Control
3.1

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Production and Processing
4.9
Mathematics
4.6
Engineering and Technology
4.5
Computers and Electronics
4.4
Design
4.4
Education and Training
4.2
English Language
3.8
Mechanical
3.6

What the work involves

Controlling Machines and ProcessesUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeHandling and Moving ObjectsWorking with ComputersMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment

Important abilities

Near VisionVisualizationOral ComprehensionInformation OrderingOral ExpressionWritten Comprehension

Education of workers

High school diploma
33%
Post-secondary certificate
31%
Some college
20%
Associate's degree
14%
Bachelor's degree
2%

Training before entry

3–6 months
28%
6–12 months
25%
1–3 months
22%
1–2 years
16%
2–4 years
4%
Up to 1 month
4%
4–10 years
2%

Related work experience

2–4 years
34%
4–6 years
31%
1–2 years
12%
8–10 years
12%
6–12 months
8%
Up to 1 month
2%
None
1%
6–8 years
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 programmers

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.