What does a numerical control programmer do?
A numerical control programmer is responsible for designing system programs for the technical components used by various industrial operations to function automatically. Numerical control programmers operate machine tools, analyzing its schematics to create a program, and increase the efficiency of its operational properties. They should also have excellent computer literacy as this task requires the programmers to utilize CAD systems, modifying machine instructions with the strategic design plans. A numerical control programmer must be highly organizational, inspecting the accuracy of the program by running diagnostic tests and performing adjustments as necessary.
Numerical control programmer responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real numerical control programmer resumes:
- Tune and correct extrusion tools to achieve dimensional tolerances, finish and function of products to internal and external customer specifications.
- Control experiences mill/lathe include: Fanuc, Yasnac, Haas, Fadal, Okuma, Yama Seiki.
- Design tools and write NC programs to manufacture a variety of composite tools for various aerospace customers using CATIA V5.
- Write program, g-code, troubleshoot, maintain fabricating equipment.
- Train QA shop personal in operating CMM machines for part or assembly inspections.
- Bid, plan, estimate, and programme all in house CNC machines for aerospace, space, and commercial products.
- Interact with shop floor personnel to troubleshoot quality problems relate to machining operations.
- Review SPC charts to help eliminate problems.
- Perform SPC reporting on inspection of parts.
- Coordinate operations for HAAS mills and lathes.
- Used math skills, including algebra and trigonometry.
- Review results with VeriCut to insure against crashes.
- Program for CNC machining centers using Siemens NX v8.5.
- Order and inventory all tooling for Amada punch presses.
- Create efficient CNC tool work paths utilizing Siemens NX 8.5 CAM.
Numerical control programmer skills and personality traits
We calculated that 15% of Numerical Control Programmers are proficient in CNC Machines, G Code, and Cad Cam. They’re also known for soft skills such as Dexterity, Physical strength, and Mechanical skills.
We break down the percentage of Numerical Control Programmers that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- CNC Machines, 15%
Delegated responsibility to program CNC machines utilizing SmartCam and AutoCAD software.
- G Code, 6%
Machine maintenance Developing macros Editing code.
- Cad Cam, 6%
Trained in CAD CAM software programs such as PowerMill and PowerShape which helped assist in various programming task.
- G-Code, 4%
Customized MasterCam post processors for specific machinery and G-Code format.
- CAD/CAM, 4%
Engineer Technician Numerical Control CAD/CAM Programmer Program numerical control fabricating equipment.
- CNC Lathes, 4%
Operated and maintained various machines as well as programmed numerous CNC Lathes/blueprints to exact specifications.
Common skills that a numerical control programmer uses to do their job include "cnc machines," "g code," and "cad cam." You can find details on the most important numerical control programmer responsibilities below.
Dexterity. The most essential soft skill for a numerical control programmer to carry out their responsibilities is dexterity. This skill is important for the role because "metal and plastic machine workers who work in metal and plastic machined goods manufacturing use precise hand movements to make the necessary shapes, cuts, and edges that designs require." Additionally, a numerical control programmer resume shows how their duties depend on dexterity: "machine shop lead man mazatrol programming g code programming fork lift operator"
Physical strength. Many numerical control programmer duties rely on physical strength. "metal and plastic machine workers must be strong enough to guide and load heavy and bulky parts and materials into machines.," so a numerical control programmer will need this skill often in their role. This resume example is just one of many ways numerical control programmer responsibilities rely on physical strength: "programmed large mazak cnc mills in production of test pieces for tensile strength, fracture - toughness, etc. "
Mechanical skills. This is an important skill for numerical control programmers to perform their duties. For an example of how numerical control programmer responsibilities depend on this skill, consider that "metal and plastic machine workers set up and operate machinery." This excerpt from a resume also shows how vital it is to everyday roles and responsibilities of a numerical control programmer: "provide design work and drawings for aircraft instrument company using autocad mechanical desktop and esprit to create cnc programs. ".
Physical stamina. A big part of what numerical control programmers do relies on "physical stamina." You can see how essential it is to numerical control programmer responsibilities because "metal and plastic machine workers must be able to stand for long periods and perform repetitive work." Here's an example of how this skill is used from a resume that represents typical numerical control programmer tasks: "lead repair technician skills used math, physical, geometry, electrical, driving, forklift"
The three companies that hire the most numerical control programmers are:
- The Aerospace Corporation108 numerical control programmers jobs
- Construction Specialties45 numerical control programmers jobs
- TPI25 numerical control programmers jobs
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Compare different numerical control programmers
Numerical control programmer vs. Mold maker
A Mold Maker creates, adjusts, inspects, maintains, and repairs molds and production equipment. They use various machines, such as lathes, milling machines, grinding machines, and jig borders.
While similarities exist, there are also some differences between numerical control programmers and mold maker. For instance, numerical control programmer responsibilities require skills such as "g-code," "cnc lathes," "gd," and "aerospace." Whereas a mold maker is skilled in "hand tools," "mastercam," "mold components," and "edm machines." This is part of what separates the two careers.
Mold makers earn the highest salaries when working in the automotive industry, with an average yearly salary of $53,743. On the other hand, numerical control programmers are paid more in the technology industry with an average salary of $57,763.The education levels that mold makers earn slightly differ from numerical control programmers. In particular, mold makers are 1.4% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree than a numerical control programmer. Additionally, they're 0.2% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Numerical control programmer vs. Tool designer
A tool designer is an expert who works to engineer a new equipment's initial design used in industrial manufacturing. Tool designers design machine cutting tools like drills, broaches, and milling-machine cutters. They apply geometric and algebraic formulas along with standard tool engineering data for tool configuration development. Also, they modify tool designs based on production service data or trial for tool life performance and life improvement.
In addition to the difference in salary, there are some other key differences worth noting. For example, numerical control programmer responsibilities are more likely to require skills like "cnc machines," "g code," "g-code," and "cnc lathes." Meanwhile, a tool designer has duties that require skills in areas such as "assembly fixtures," "cnc," "creo," and "mechanical design." These differences highlight just how different the day-to-day in each role looks.
Tool designers may earn a higher salary than numerical control programmers, but tool designers earn the most pay in the automotive industry with an average salary of $70,839. On the other hand, numerical control programmers receive higher pay in the technology industry, where they earn an average salary of $57,763.In general, tool designers achieve similar levels of education than numerical control programmers. They're 0.1% less likely to obtain a Master's Degree while being 0.2% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Numerical control programmer vs. Tool maker
The job of a toolmaker is to make precision tools, holding devices, and special guides that are used in the manufacturing process. You will be responsible for repairing, maintaining, and improving jigs, fixtures, and fittings for press tools and all tooling dies, conducting routine regrinding and servicing of tools, and ensuring compliance with all quality standard regulations. In addition, you may be tasked to operate lifting equipment and forklift truck and document die history and other relevant records. You will also be responsible for conducting preventative maintenance.
Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from numerical control programmer resumes include skills like "g-code," "cad/cam," "troubleshoot," and "machine shop," whereas a tool maker is more likely to list skills in "hand tools," "cad," "assembly fixtures," and "cam. "
Tool makers earn the highest salary when working in the automotive industry, where they receive an average salary of $57,697. Comparatively, numerical control programmers have the highest earning potential in the technology industry, with an average salary of $57,763.When it comes to education, tool makers tend to earn similar degree levels compared to numerical control programmers. In fact, they're 0.9% less likely to earn a Master's Degree, and 0.2% less likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Numerical control programmer vs. Computer numerical controller supervisor
It is the responsibility of a computer numerical controller (CNC) supervisor to direct and manage CNC operators and machinists. CNC supervisors handle the schedules of the teams and their operations. The supervisors ensure the completion of their work based on the expected delivery dates. They bring balance between team coordination and leadership with machine programming skills and technical knowledge. Their tasks also include CNC machine programming and troubleshooting, and opportunity identification to enhance efficiency.
Types of numerical control programmer
Updated January 8, 2025
