CNC Programmer vs Production Associate

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Pay

CNC Programmer

$81,000 typical, a year

Most CNC Programmers earn $72,800 to $98,800 a year.

From 166 postings that list pay

532 open jobs now

CNC Programmer salaries CNC Programmer jobs

Production Associate

$42,600 typical, a year

Most Production Associates earn $37,400 to $48,400 a year.

From 1,325 postings that list pay

7,930 open jobs now

Production Associate salaries Production Associate jobs

CNC Programmers typically earn about $38,400 more a year than Production Associates.

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

Production Associate

  • Follow safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment.
  • Clean equipment, work areas, and production facilities.
  • Inspect products for quality and remove defective items.
  • Pack finished products into boxes or onto pallets.
  • Operate production machinery and equipment.
  • Complete paperwork and record production data.

Summed up from 30 job postings

Skills employers ask for

CNC Programmer

More common in CNC Programmer postings

  • CNC Programming 8 in 10 postings
  • CNC Machining 6 in 10 postings
  • Mastercam 5 in 10 postings
  • Tooling 4 in 10 postings
  • Esprit CAM 3 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
  • CAD/CAM 2 in 10 postings

Production Associate

More common in Production Associate postings

  • High School Diploma 4 in 10 postings
  • Production Operations 2 in 10 postings
  • Production Equipment 1 in 10 postings
  • Manufacturing 1 in 10 postings
  • Forklift Operation 1 in 10 postings
  • GMP 1 in 10 postings
  • PPE Usage 1 in 10 postings
  • Material Handling 1 in 10 postings
  • Food Safety 1 in 10 postings
  • Quality Control 1 in 15 postings

Out of each role's current postings.

Open jobs

CNC Programmer

  • Pay not stated Blandon, PA
    CNC MachiningGeometric Dimensioning & TolerancingProduction PlanningProcess ImprovementMastercam +3
    Mid level · 5+ yrs exp 1 day ago
    Apply
  • Machinist/CNC/Programmer

    Luminator Technology Group
    Pay not stated Plano, TX
    Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft OutlookCNC MachiningSolidWorksAutoCAD +12
    Mid level · 2+ yrs exp 1 month ago
    Apply
  • Pay not stated Irvine, CA
    RhinoSolidWorksAutodeskMastercamCNC Machining +4
    Entry level · 1-3 yrs exp 16 hours ago
    Apply

Production Associate

  • Pay not stated Bethel, PA 19507, USA
    Inventory ManagementMaterial HandlingWarehouse ManagementProduction Equipment
    1 day ago
    Apply
  • Pay not stated Chicopee, MA, 01020
    WeldingCalipersBlueprint ReadingAS9100Deburring +6
    8 hours ago
    Apply
  • $15.82 - $25.24/hr Employer stated
    Evening shift Nacogdoches-TX
    Production Equipment
    8 hours ago
    Apply

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