Head machinist vs computer numerical controller machinist

The differences between head machinists and computer numerical controller 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 head machinist and a computer numerical controller machinist. Additionally, a head machinist has an average salary of $46,416, which is higher than the $41,685 average annual salary of a computer numerical controller machinist.

The top three skills for a head machinist include calipers, CNC and engine lathes. The most important skills for a computer numerical controller machinist are calipers, micrometers, and manual lathes.

Head machinist vs computer numerical controller machinist overview

	Head Machinist	Computer Numerical Controller Machinist
Yearly salary	$46,416	$41,685
Hourly rate	$22.32	$20.04
Growth rate	1%	1%
Number of jobs	17,621	32,345
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	High School Diploma, 42%	High School Diploma, 39%
Average age	48	48
Years of experience	4	4

Head machinist vs computer numerical controller machinist salary

Head machinists and computer numerical controller machinists have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Head Machinist	Computer Numerical Controller Machinist
Average salary	$46,416	$41,685
Salary range	Between $34,000 And $61,000	Between $30,000 And $56,000
Highest paying City	-	Coon Rapids, MN
Highest paying state	-	New Mexico
Best paying company	-	Amphenol
Best paying industry	-	Technology

Differences between head machinist and computer numerical controller machinist education

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

	Head Machinist	Computer Numerical Controller Machinist
Most common degree	High School Diploma, 42%	High School Diploma, 39%
Most common major	Precision Metal Working	Precision Metal Working
Most common college	-	-

Head machinist vs computer numerical controller machinist demographics

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

	Head Machinist	Computer Numerical Controller Machinist
Average age	48	48
Gender ratio	Male, 99.3% Female, 0.7%	Male, 93.6% Female, 6.4%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 3.9% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 14.5% Asian, 6.3% White, 71.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5%	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%
LGBT Percentage	3%	3%

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

Head machinist example responsibilities.

Manage output according to company quality standards and corresponding ISO certification.
Work closely with management and engineering staff to ensure efficient and safe methods are utilized in producing high quality aerospace components.
Perform various machining tasks as well as fabricated, and assemble prototype automation machinery.

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.

Head machinist vs computer numerical controller machinist skills

Common head machinist skills

Calipers, 35%
CNC, 30%
Engine Lathes, 9%
Safety Procedures, 6%
MIG, 4%
Drill Press, 4%

Common computer numerical controller machinist skills

Calipers, 7%
Micrometers, 7%
Manual Lathes, 6%
Math, 5%
G Code, 4%
Grinders, 4%

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Head Machinist
Head Machinist vs Computer Numerical Controller Machinist

Updated January 8, 2025

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