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

What is an nc programmer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Numerically controlled programmers, also identified as NC programmers, operate factory machines that turn raw materials into functional objects. They are liable for reading and interpreting design blueprints, programming the CNC machine, and adjusting the machine settings until the desired specs are met.

As an NC programmer, you will be accountable for reading and interpreting technical blueprints, inputting the design specs, setting the machine cutting paths, and performing quality checks on the final commodity. You may also be required to conduct routine machine maintenance and troubleshoot any issues that emerge during the manufacturing process.

This role demands you to have extensive experience working in manufacturing, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work unsupervised. Ultimately, as a top-class NC programmer, you must work quickly and efficiently, ensuring all products meet the client's specifications.

ScoreNC ProgrammerUS Average

Salary

5.5

Avg. Salary $70,693

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

6.3

Growth rate -8%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

6.5

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.87%

Asian 5.93%

Black or African American 4.77%

Hispanic or Latino 14.33%

Unknown 5.42%

White 68.68%

Gender

female 5.07%

male 94.93%

Age - 43

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 - 43

Stress level

6.3

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.8

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

5.2

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become an nc programmer

Explore nc programmer education requirements

Most common nc programmer degrees

Bachelor's

37.3 %

Associate

36.6 %

High School Diploma

11.2 %

Start to develop specific nc programmer skills

Skills	Percentages
NC	16.55%
CNC	13.01%
Cad Cam	6.93%
Aerospace	6.80%
NX	5.22%

Complete relevant nc programmer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New nc 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 nc programmer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real nc programmer resumes.

Research nc programmer duties and responsibilities

Manage the program data and new software releases on CATIA workstation.
Programme Fanuc and Allen Bradley controls.
Build solid part models on occasion in NX.
Build tool models in TDM for use in NX and Vericut.

Prepare your nc programmer resume

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

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