FEATURE
CNC Machinist Training Requirements
Before working as a CNC machinist, most companies require previous experience or training. This may include certification from a technical school, several years of experience with different machines and controllers, or familiarity with specialized tooling and machinery.
Requirements vary by employer and position. Decide what kind of machine shop and role you want to pursue so you can develop the appropriate skills. Each career stage generally builds on the one before it.
Basic Shop Helper or Student
- High school diploma or current enrollment
- Basic math knowledge
- Strong work ethic
- Punctuality
- Ability to pass drug and background checks when required
- Ability to lift more than 30 pounds
- Ability to follow instructions
- Motivation and willingness to learn quickly
Entry-Level Machinist or Operator
- One to two years of machine-trades education or relevant experience
- Ability to use inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, and thread gauges
- Ability to set tool and work offsets when needed
- Ability to change parts and deburr them properly
- Ability to operate a band saw
- Ability to perform occasional light assembly
- Ability to interpret blueprints
Mid-Level CNC Machinist
- Three to five years of machining experience, machine-trades education, or a combination of both
- Ability to set up CNC milling machines or CNC lathes
- Ability to program machines and edit programs when needed
- Some CAD/CAM software experience when relevant to the position
- Ability to inspect completed parts using the proper tools
- Math and basic trigonometry skills
- Basic knowledge of appropriate feeds and speeds for different materials
Lead Machinist
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in troubleshooting machine problems, program problems, and alarms
- Five or more years of relevant experience
- Ability to teach and train employees in machine operation and setup
- Forklift certification and operating experience when required
- Ability to report maintenance needs and important issues to management
- Understanding of each machine’s capabilities and limitations
- Leadership and organizational skills
CNC Programmer or Engineer
- Two to five or more years of programming experience with CAD/CAM software such as GibbsCAM, SurfCAM, BobCAD-CAM, Mastercam, or SolidWorks
- Thorough understanding of machine operation and G-code and M-code programming
- Awareness of cutting-tool technology
- Thorough understanding of workholding strategies
- Ability to create and use fixtures for simple and complex parts
- Strong tooling knowledge and the ability to select effective feeds and speeds for each job
- Ability to program different machines and configurations, including mills, lathes, fourth-axis equipment, and live tooling when required
Preparing for the Job You Want
Not every employer will use these exact requirements. However, candidates should be able to perform most of the work associated with the level they are pursuing.
Broader knowledge and stronger practical skills can make a candidate more attractive to employers. A strong résumé does not guarantee a job, but documented skills and experience can help support compensation appropriate to the candidate’s ability level.