Career roadmap
How to become a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operator
Median annual wage for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators (51-9161) — BLS OEWS, May 2023.
What you would actually do
The tasks that make up the work of a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operator, weighted by how central each one is to the job.
- Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
- Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
- Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
- Install mechanical components in production equipment.
- Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
- Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
- Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
- Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production.
The skills that actually carry the job
Scored on how much the work depends on each one — not a wishlist, a measurement.
- Operations Monitoring4.1/5
- Operation and Control4.1/5
- Critical Thinking3.6/5
- Monitoring3.6/5
- Quality Control Analysis3.4/5
- Active Listening3.1/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.1/5
- Troubleshooting3.1/5
- Speaking3.0/5
- Equipment Maintenance3.0/5
Would this suit you?
Every occupation leans on a particular mix of interests. Here is the mix measured for a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operator — and our free 2-minute Career Match scores you on the same six.
- Realistic6.4/7
Hands-on, practical, working with tools, machines or the body
- Conventional5.4/7
Ordering, checking, following a precise procedure accurately
- Investigative2.8/7
Investigating, diagnosing, reasoning through problems with evidence
- Enterprising1.4/7
Persuading, leading, selling, taking commercial risk
- Artistic1.1/7
Creating, expressing, working without a fixed procedure
- Social1.0/7
Helping, teaching, caring for and working directly with people
Interest profiles from the O*NET 29.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0.
