How To Become An CMM Programmer: What It Is and Career Path

What is an cmm programmer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

The primary role of a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) programmer is to develop, maintain, and generate CMM programs. These programs inspect and verify that the right materials and components are used for production. They evaluate blueprints and specifications to implement correct inspection criteria according to standard practices. They also give insights into the programming and calibration of a product. CMM programmers help companies decide if they want to make changes to a product, use fewer resources or make the product more functional.

To be a CMM Programmer, one needs a certificate program in quality technology or an associate's degree program in manufacturing technology. It is also necessary to have a minimum of a year of related experience. CMM programmers need mathematics, problem-solving, communication, and computer skills. The average salary of a CMM Programmer salary is $64,198. It ranges between $58,010 and $71,449.

ScoreCMM ProgrammerUS Average

Salary

6.0

Avg. Salary $76,784

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.1

Growth rate -7%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.5

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.18%

Asian 14.93%

Black or African American 5.10%

Hispanic or Latino 9.00%

Unknown 4.74%

White 66.06%

Gender

female 7.77%

male 92.23%

Age - 48

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 48

Stress level

5.1

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.3

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

5.7

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become an cmm programmer

Explore cmm programmer education requirements

Most common cmm programmer degrees

Associate

42.8 %

Bachelor's

26.2 %

High School Diploma

14.9 %

Start to develop specific cmm programmer skills

Skills	Percentages
GD	11.99%
Coordinate Measuring Machine	7.05%
Calipers	6.03%
CNC	4.60%
Part Inspection	4.41%

Complete relevant cmm programmer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New cmm programmers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an cmm programmer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real cmm programmer resumes.

Research cmm programmer duties and responsibilities

Develop different VBA macro tools to automate reporting and assure information accuracy, overlapping avoidance and management control.
Utilize ISO, ANSI standards.
Use mini tablet, polyworks, and create spc charts in excel.
Surface plate inspection to complete and help operators on the floor run CNC machines.

Prepare your cmm programmer resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your cmm programmer resume.

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