CNC Programmer vs Machinist
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Pay
CNC Programmer
$81,200 typical, a year
Most CNC Programmers earn $72,800 to $98,800 a year.
From 173 postings that list pay
552 open jobs now
Machinist
$61,400 typical, a year
Most Machinists earn $54,100 to $68,600 a year.
From 1,007 postings that list pay
3,994 open jobs now
CNC Programmers typically earn about $19,800 more a year than Machinists.
What each one does
CNC Programmer
- Develop and write CNC programs for milling, turning, and multi-axis machines.
- Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine machining requirements.
- Select appropriate tooling, speeds, and feeds to optimize performance and efficiency.
- Run and test programs, then fine-tune them for efficiency and accuracy.
- Diagnose and fix problems that arise during the manufacturing process.
- Ensure the finished parts meet precise specifications and maintain quality standards.
Summed up from 30 job postings
Machinist
- Set up and operate CNC machines to produce precision components.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
- Inspect machined parts using precision measuring instruments and gauges.
- Load and unload materials, parts, and workpieces into machines.
- Perform basic machine maintenance and routine cleaning of equipment.
- Troubleshoot machine issues and make adjustments to maintain quality standards.
Summed up from 30 job postings
Skills employers ask for
CNC Programmer
Asked for in both
- CNC Programming 8 in 10 postings
- CNC Machining 5 in 10 postings
- Tooling 4 in 10 postings
- Blueprint Reading 3 in 10 postings
- G-code 3 in 10 postings
- Machining 3 in 10 postings
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing 3 in 10 postings
More common in CNC Programmer postings
- Mastercam 5 in 10 postings
- Esprit CAM 3 in 10 postings
- CAD/CAM 2 in 10 postings
Machinist
Asked for in both
- CNC Programming 2 in 10 postings
- CNC Machining 6 in 10 postings
- Tooling 2 in 10 postings
- Blueprint Reading 4 in 10 postings
- G-code 2 in 10 postings
- Machining 2 in 10 postings
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing 2 in 10 postings
More common in Machinist postings
- High School Diploma 4 in 10 postings
- Calipers 3 in 10 postings
- Precision Measuring 3 in 10 postings
Out of each role's current postings.
Open jobs
CNC Programmer
Lathe CNC Programmer
Helios Hydraulics AmericaPay not stated Schultes Precision - Buffalo Grove, IL 60089G-codeMastercamEngineering DrawingsM CodeFanuc +6CNC Programmer
Radial Solutions Inc.Pay not stated Huntsville, AL, 35816CNC MachiningPrototypingMachiningToolingCNC Programmer
CalqulatePay not stated Grove City, Ohio OnsiteGeometric Dimensioning & TolerancingMastercamCNC MachiningToolingG-code +2
Machinist
Machinist – Finishing Technician
Richardson ElectronicsPay not statedPreventive MaintenanceGrindingDeburringSheet MetalISO 9000 +2- Pay not stated Chatsworth, CA, 91311 OnsiteCalipersLean ManufacturingProcess ImprovementDeburringCNC Machining +1
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