What Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators do
The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database describes the work of Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators this way: "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."
The core tasks O*NET records for this occupation include: "Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures"; "Remove and replace dull cutting tools"; "Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments"; "Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems"; "Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction".
Education, experience and training
According to the BLS Employment Projections, the typical education needed to enter this occupation is high school diploma or equivalent. Typical on-the-job training to reach competency is moderate-term on-the-job training.
Job outlook for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 170,000 jobs in this occupation in 2025 and projects 154,100 in 2035, a decrease of 15,900 jobs (-9.4%). That is slower than the 3.5% projected for all occupations.
About 12,500 openings a year are projected on average, counting both new positions and positions vacated by workers who retire or switch occupations. Relative to today's employment that is 7.4% a year, against 10.3% for all occupations. BLS lists a national median annual wage of $50,690, compared with $50,980 for all occupations.
Where Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators earn the most
Published data currently covers California, where the employment-weighted average of local median wages is $55,383. More states are added as pages are published.
Occupations related to Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
Other occupations in the same SOC minor group (51-9000) include Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders, Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers, Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders and Helpers--Production Workers.
Frequently asked questions about Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
How much do Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators earn in the United States?
BLS lists a national median annual wage of $50,690.
Is Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators a growing occupation?
BLS projects employment to shrink by 9.4% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3.5% for all occupations, with about 12,500 openings a year.
What education do Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators need?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent and moderate-term on-the-job training, according to BLS.