Also called: CAM Programmer, NC Programmer
Turns 3D part designs into the code that tells computer-controlled machines exactly how to cut metal or plastic.
You open a 3D model of a turbine part and use CAM software to plan every cutter move, watching a simulation of the tool carving metal on screen. Then you walk the program out to the machine, run the first piece slowly, and measure it. Five-axis parts can feel like solving a 3D puzzle.
BLS figures for computer numerically controlled tool programmers.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Certificate, about 2 years after high school. Machining certificate or associate degree plus several years of shop experience.
Ways in: 2-year college, Trade school, Apprenticeship, On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Machine Tool Technology (trade school), Manufacturing Engineering Technology.
Growing much faster than average (about 11% over 10 years). One of the few machining jobs BLS expects to grow fast.
Medium risk for 10 years. AI-driven CAM now auto-generates many toolpaths; tricky parts, setups and first-article proving still need a skilled human.
Classes: Machining CTE class, Geometry, Trigonometry, Drafting/CAD class.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-9162.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.