CNC tool operator
Computer numerically controlled tool operators operate CNC equipment or robots to perform functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
What the job is
- The work
- Computer numerically controlled tool operators operate CNC equipment or robots to perform functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- How people get in
- CNC tool operators usually need a high school diploma and may need up to 1 year of on-the-job training. Community colleges offer courses and certificates in CNC operation and programming. BLS names no license.
- Good fit for
- Students who like computers and machines and want a factory job that can lead to setup, machinist or programming roles.
- Career cluster
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Paying for it
- File the FAFSA (opens by October 1) for grants, work-study and federal loans; a Pell Grant pays up to $7,395 a year (2026–27). Average public four-year tuition and fees: $11,950 in-state vs $31,880 out-of-state (2025–26). Residency rules and regional discounts · Save with 2+2 transfer
- Your state
-
StateChoose a state
- AlabamaState guide
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- CaliforniaState guide
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- UtahState guide
- VermontState guide
- VirginiaState guide
- WashingtonState guide
- West VirginiaState guide
- WisconsinState guide
- WyomingState guide
Key numbers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, pay for May 2025.
- Median pay
- $47,700 a year ($22.94 an hour)
BLS figures for all metal and plastic machine workers (BLS counts CNC tool operators in this group)BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — Summary (Quick Facts)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- CNC tool operators: pay
- Median $50,690 a year (May 2025). CNC tool programmers: $68,120.
BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — PayU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- CNC tool operators: jobs
- 170,000 in 2025, projected 154,100 in 2035 (−9%, −15,900 jobs). Programmers: 28,600, projected +6%.
BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — Job Outlook (projections table)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- Jobs in 2025
- 963,000
- Typical entry
- High school diploma
- Training after hire
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
Job outlook, 2025–35
- Projected growth
- −7%, which BLS calls "decline"
BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — Summary (Quick Facts)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- Jobs added
- −63,000 over 2025–35
- All U.S. jobs
- 3.5% over the same period, for comparison
Tools overview
BLS does not publish what a starter tool set costs. Ask the school or apprenticeship sponsor which tools you must buy before you enrol.
- Operators must be able to use programmable devices, computers and robots on the factory floor, and secure and tighten heavy fixtures into place.
BLS
Metal and Plastic Machine Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
Step-by-step roadmap
The routes, step by step, the national certifications and the state licensing rules are on one page.
CNC operator: on-the-job training or a short apprenticeship
See the roadmap
Route 1: Diploma, then training on the job · Route 2: Registered Apprenticeship · Route 3: Community college CNC certificate
Every number links to the BLS page it came from, checked 21 Oct 2026. Education Margdarshan does not recommend paid courses. All trades