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Computer numerical controller machinist vs machine set up operator

The differences between computer numerical controller machinists and machine set up operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a computer numerical controller machinist, becoming a machine set up operator takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a computer numerical controller machinist has an average salary of $41,685, which is higher than the $35,823 average annual salary of a machine set up operator.

The top three skills for a computer numerical controller machinist include calipers, micrometers and manual lathes. The most important skills for a machine set up operator are cnc machines, calipers, and micrometers.

Computer numerical controller machinist vs machine set up operator overview

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistMachine Set Up Operator
Yearly salary$41,685$35,823
Hourly rate$20.04$17.22
Growth rate1%-8%
Number of jobs32,34561,986
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 49%
Average age4843
Years of experience42

Computer numerical controller machinist vs machine set up operator salary

Computer numerical controller machinists and machine set up operators have different pay scales, as shown below.

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistMachine Set Up Operator
Average salary$41,685$35,823
Salary rangeBetween $30,000 And $56,000Between $28,000 And $45,000
Highest paying CityCoon Rapids, MNHolyoke, MA
Highest paying stateNew MexicoCalifornia
Best paying companyAmphenolABB
Best paying industryTechnologyAutomotive

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and machine set up operator education

There are a few differences between a computer numerical controller machinist and a machine set up operator in terms of educational background:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistMachine Set Up Operator
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 49%
Most common majorPrecision Metal WorkingBusiness
Most common college--

Computer numerical controller machinist vs machine set up operator demographics

Here are the differences between computer numerical controller machinists' and machine set up operators' demographics:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistMachine Set Up Operator
Average age4843
Gender ratioMale, 93.6% Female, 6.4%Male, 86.5% Female, 13.5%
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, 4.8% Unknown, 5.4% Hispanic or Latino, 14.6% Asian, 6.0% White, 68.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%
LGBT Percentage3%6%

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and machine set up operator 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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Machine set up operator example responsibilities.

  • Perform trial runs on new CNC programs, working with programming and tooling to achieve satisfactory parts.
  • Used micrometers and calipers to determine require tolerances.
  • Follow ISO and QS standard operating procedures.
  • Panel control, fanuc control, & dynapath.
  • Run machines after setup, inspect parts run.
  • Work on CNC OKUMA machines, horizontals and verticals.
  • Show more

Computer numerical controller machinist vs machine set up operator skills

Common computer numerical controller machinist skills
  • Calipers, 7%
  • Micrometers, 7%
  • Manual Lathes, 6%
  • Math, 5%
  • G Code, 4%
  • Grinders, 4%
Common machine set up operator skills
  • CNC Machines, 13%
  • Calipers, 10%
  • Micrometers, 9%
  • CNC Lathes, 6%
  • Quality Checks, 5%
  • Math, 5%

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