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Computer numerical controller machinist vs lead machinist

The differences between computer numerical controller machinists and lead machinists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a computer numerical controller machinist and a lead machinist. Additionally, a lead machinist has an average salary of $51,691, which is higher than the $41,685 average annual salary of a computer numerical controller machinist.

The top three skills for a computer numerical controller machinist include calipers, micrometers and manual lathes. The most important skills for a lead machinist are cnc lathes, grinders, and calipers.

Computer numerical controller machinist vs lead machinist overview

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistLead Machinist
Yearly salary$41,685$51,691
Hourly rate$20.04$24.85
Growth rate1%1%
Number of jobs32,34510,892
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 34%
Average age4848
Years of experience44

Computer numerical controller machinist vs lead machinist salary

Computer numerical controller machinists and lead machinists have different pay scales, as shown below.

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistLead Machinist
Average salary$41,685$51,691
Salary rangeBetween $30,000 And $56,000Between $39,000 And $68,000
Highest paying CityCoon Rapids, MN-
Highest paying stateNew Mexico-
Best paying companyAmphenol-
Best paying industryTechnology-

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and lead machinist education

There are a few differences between a computer numerical controller machinist and a lead machinist in terms of educational background:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistLead Machinist
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 34%
Most common majorPrecision Metal WorkingPrecision Metal Working
Most common college--

Computer numerical controller machinist vs lead machinist demographics

Here are the differences between computer numerical controller machinists' and lead machinists' demographics:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistLead Machinist
Average age4848
Gender ratioMale, 93.6% Female, 6.4%Male, 95.6% Female, 4.4%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 4.0% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 15.1% Asian, 6.4% White, 70.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5%Black or African American, 4.2% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 14.7% Asian, 6.5% White, 70.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5%
LGBT Percentage3%3%

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and lead machinist duties and responsibilities

Computer numerical controller machinist example responsibilities.

  • Calculate dimensions and tolerances using instruments such as micrometers and calipers.
  • Set up and operate OKUMA CNC lathe and MAZAK CNC lathe to machine various high pressure cylinders.
  • Have had experience and handle deburr and clipping work on the 446 and lit operations on the drill press of 413.
  • Fulfill calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, and trigonometry.
  • Verify dimensions of parts machine using micrometers, calipers and other precision measuring instruments.
  • Verify conformance of finish work pieces to specifications using measuring instruments including microscopes, gauges, calipers and micrometers.
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Lead machinist example responsibilities.

  • Manage and perform programming of CNC mills, lathes and EDM equipment, instrumentation, data acquisition and control systems.
  • Experience with cutting different materials (aluminum, titanium, inconel, mild and stainless steels).
  • Program, edit, and setup of CNC lathe with Fanuc control.
  • Work machines such as; Haas CNC vertical and horizontal mills and lathes.
  • Perform gluing, soldering, brazing and gas, arc, welding operations.
  • Lead setup/ supervisor for a cell of two Haas lathes and two Haas mills.
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Computer numerical controller machinist vs lead machinist skills

Common computer numerical controller machinist skills
  • Calipers, 7%
  • Micrometers, 7%
  • Manual Lathes, 6%
  • Math, 5%
  • G Code, 4%
  • Grinders, 4%
Common lead machinist skills
  • CNC Lathes, 9%
  • Grinders, 8%
  • Calipers, 8%
  • Machine Tools, 6%
  • Aluminum, 6%
  • Troubleshoot, 5%

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