CNC programmer
Use your attention to detail to operate CNC machines to manufacture precision engineering parts out of metal and other materials.
Also known as: computer numerically controlled programmer, CNC machinist, CNC setter, CNC operator
About the job
What it's like
CNC (computer numerically controlled) programmers set up and operate the machines that might cut, drill, stamp, grind and laser different materials for manufacturing purposes.
The machines can be used to make parts for vehicle and aerospace, furniture, military equipment and much more.
The machines are programmed to tell them exactly what they need to do to manipulate the metal or other material. You might write the directions or use technical drawings to programme the machine with the data.
You’d use technical and design knowledge to identify what the machine needs to do and then you’d operate the machine and set the appropriate functionalities (cutting speed, for example) to create the end product.
What you'll do
use instructions or technical drawings to set-up the CNC machines
write the program to tell the machine what it needs to do
decide which tools are needed for each project
check the quality of the items produced
adjust the tools and machinery if necessary
clean and maintain the machines regularly
set-up any hand-controlled machinery correctly
control cutting speeds on the machine
Hours
You'll likely work normal hours from 9am until 5pm on weekdays, but this depends on the organisation.
Environment
You might work in workshop or a factory.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- machining
- computer numerical control (cnc)
- cnc machining
- engineering drawings
- milling
- lathes
- cnc milling
- mills
- fanuc controllers
- tekla (bim software)
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- attention to detail
- resourceful
- written communication
- working with technology
- reading
- listening
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are a number of ways to get qualified for this job through college, university or work-based qualifications, such as apprenticeships.
You'll be using software and coding languages in order to create programs to run the most effective manufacturing process – to do this effectively, you'd benefit from:
understanding manufacturing processes
having the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
This knowledge and experience could be gained through a variety of sources such as college or university courses in areas such as:
engineering systems/practice (manufacture)
mechanical and manufacturing engineering
computer aided design and technology
software engineering
Apprenticeships
You can gain skills and qualifications in the workplace through options such as Foundation Apprenticeships (FA), Modern Apprenticeships (MA) and Graduate Apprenticeships (GA).
Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are chosen as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 but include hands-on learning at a local employer or college. They are the same level as a Higher.
You might want to consider an FA in areas such as:
IT: Software development
Engineering
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Engineering Technical
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Engineering: Design and Manufacture
IT: Software Development
Not all employers list specific qualification requirements they might ask for relevant experience, usually work based, that demonstrate a range of transferable skills.
It is useful to have knowledge of CAD format models such as IGES and STEP.
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