How to Become a CNC Machinist

Working as a CNC machinist requires managing many different responsibilities during the day. They include:

• Performing routine maintenance on the machines
• Helping the work areas stay clean and organized
• Reporting maintenance or safety issues that develop to management
• Following proper safety protocols and guidelines that are in place
• Setting up the machinery correctly to ensure it operates correctly during the day
• Conducting the programming that is required of the machines
• Welding and drafting
• Maintaining stock to avoid running out of materials
• Troubleshooting problems and fixing the issues to restore the operation of the machines
• Write and interpret the instructions for assembling the products correctly
• Applying the latest knowledge of the work to their job and making an effort to continue to learn

There are many different operator tools that CNC machinists use each day to fulfill their responsibilities and perform different tasks. The main tools they use include calipers, which are necessary for measuring the thickness and dimensions of products that are manufactured. Edge finders, 6-inch scale rulers, and deburring tools also come in handy. CNC machinists use calculators each day, as well as micrometers and machinists' squares. Center punches are also useful because they are necessary for marking the center of drilling holes and creating a target for the drill. Some CNC machinists also heavily rely on dials or digital indicators, which are versatile and serve many different purposes. They're necessary for setting up and calibrating various machines while checking their tolerance as they're operating.

CNC macsts work in manufacturing facilities and machine shops that produce items like aerospace products, motor vehicles, and mechanical engineering products. They typically have a 40-hour workweek and often work 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. While spending time in a shop, they follow safety protocols to reduce the risk of injuries as they're exposed to different hazards. Due to the job's nature and tasks, CNC machinists cannot work remotely. It's necessary to be physically present to inspect, set up, and fix issues on the machinery that is in the factory or other facility.

While working as a CNC machinist, your colleagues will be other CNC operators who work on the machines and keep them running well. You will also work closely with professionals like CNC programmers who create the operations of the machines and tell them what to do. This role also requires reporting to other managers and executives within the corporation.

If you work as a CNC machinist, you will work an average of five days each week. Some companies may require you to work on the weekends, depending on the corporation and industry. The typical work schedule is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You spend your time working in a facility where the machines are present to ensure they operate properly and troubleshoot potential issues that can interrupt the manufacturing process.

Spherion is a reputable staffing agency that successfully pairs different types of job candidates with the right positions in various industries. The professional team at Spherion helps CNC machinists find the right companies to work for and have more networking opportunities to ensure it's easier to find the right job quickly and stand out among competing candidates. 

If you want to work in a stimulating and challenging environment with other people, the team at Spherion has the necessary tools, resources, and experiences to help you advance in your career and secure employment with a reputable company. You can obtain many different opportunities while working with Spherion. Additional benefits of working with Spherion for CNC machinists include:

• Receiving pay on a weekly basis
• Different scheduling options
• Flexibility
• Help from a Spherion contact person who will assist you with your job search
• A quick and easy interview process
• Access to many job opportunities in the local area
• Multiple training opportunities to develop your skills as a CNC machinist

Working as a CNC machinist requires a high school diploma or GED. Most companies require that you attend a trade school and complete its program to obtain the necessary skills and knowledge for this position. Some CNC machinists have earned associate degrees. Most corporations don't require this. However, additional education can make you more competitive and eligible for a higher salary. Attending a community college or technical school will allow you to obtain specific CNC skills. 

Many corporations also require having at least one year of machine operation experience. Obtaining different certifications is also necessary for some types of positions, making it necessary to consider becoming a NIMS Certified CNC Setup Programmer, obtaining Roll Form Operator Skilled Trade certification, and obtaining Precision Sheet Metal Operator certification.

Yes, working as a CNC machinist can provide you with a great career that pays well and can open the door to opportunities for advancement. The tasks are interesting, so you won't be bored on the job. The work can be stimulating and challenging and allow you to work closely with a variety of other people.

Working as a CNC machinist can prove to be challenging, which makes it exciting for different types of professionals. Enrolling in a CNC machinery program can allow you to gain the right skills and knowledge to succeed in the position and contribute to the success of the corporation. This hands-on position requires developing your technical skills, applying scientific methods, practicing critical thinking skills, and understanding manufacturing mathematics.

There aren't a lot of differences between machinists and CNC machinists because they share the same types of responsibilities. Both positions require setting up and maintaining the operations of CNC machines. There are a few technical differences between the positions, which include additional tasks that the CNC machinist performs. The CNC machinist also oversees and manages other CNC operators, troubleshoots and fixes mechanical issues, performs quality control, and programs the CNC machines so that they can manufacture different types of parts and products.

CNC machinists are responsible for manufacturing different types of parts and must program and set up the different machines to ensure they operate correctly. This employee must maintain quality and safety standards to reduce the risk of injuries that occur with the team in the facility. The role also involves keeping thorough records and documents. The CNC machinist must also maintain and inspect the equipment on an ongoing basis to avoid potential issues or identify where repairs are needed. The position also requires maintaining supplies, tools, and equipment that are in use each day to ensure that the right resources are available.

Applying for a job as a CNC machinist is easy with Spherion. You can search for CNC machinist jobs on spherion.com. If you don't see the perfect role, you can submit an open application. Once you submit your resume through Spherion's open application, a recruiter from the office closest to you will reach out with details about potential CNC machinist roles that fit your skill set and professional goals.