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The differences between computer numerical controller machinists and numerical control 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 numerical control 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 $38,280 average annual salary of a numerical control operator.
The top three skills for a computer numerical controller machinist include calipers, micrometers and manual lathes. The most important skills for a numerical control operator are calipers, micrometers, and math.
| Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | Numerical Control Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $41,685 | $38,280 |
| Hourly rate | $20.04 | $18.40 |
| Growth rate | 1% | -8% |
| Number of jobs | 32,345 | 85,068 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 39% | High School Diploma, 43% |
| Average age | 48 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 2 |
A computer numerical controller machinist is responsible for operating computer-based equipment, creating new machine components by programming, and evaluating machine blueprints. Computer numerical controller machinists must have extensive knowledge of the technology industry to understand its complexities and define accurate solutions, as well as excellent analytical skills for calculation requirements. Other tasks include interpreting specifications and parameters, monitoring stock inventory, requesting operating tools, verifying accurate measurements, detecting machine malfunctions, and adhering to the safety standards and procedures of the operations area.
A numerical control operator is responsible for monitoring machinery and managing computer-generated equipment to produce tools and components from various mechanical resources. Numerical control operators must have extensive knowledge with the technology and mechanical industry to perform basic troubleshooting and detect malfunctions during operations. A numerical control operator duties' also include inspecting equipment setup and finished products, ensuring high-quality parts, reviewing blueprints, following client's specifications for making adjustments, and adhering to the safety guidelines and procedures required by the business.
Computer numerical controller machinists and numerical control operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | Numerical Control Operator | |
| Average salary | $41,685 | $38,280 |
| Salary range | Between $30,000 And $56,000 | Between $29,000 And $50,000 |
| Highest paying City | Coon Rapids, MN | Tualatin, OR |
| Highest paying state | New Mexico | West Virginia |
| Best paying company | Amphenol | BWX Technologies |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a computer numerical controller machinist and a numerical control operator in terms of educational background:
| Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | Numerical Control Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 39% | High School Diploma, 43% |
| Most common major | Precision Metal Working | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between computer numerical controller machinists' and numerical control operators' demographics:
| Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | Numerical Control Operator | |
| Average age | 48 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 93.6% Female, 6.4% | Male, 89.0% Female, 11.0% |
| Race ratio | Black 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, 14.7% Asian, 6.0% White, 68.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 6% |