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CNC Operator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

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A CNC Operator, or CNC Machine Operator, is responsible for overseeing the daily functions of manufacturing machinery. Their duties include running tests before the start of operations, programming and monitoring machines when assembling products and inspecting machinery at the end of each shift to identify parts needing repair.

CNC Operator duties and responsibilities

CNC Operators have specific duties and responsibilities that can vary from industry to industry. Generally, CNC Operators are expected to do the following: 

  • Set up or program the computer responsible for the machinery.
  • Follow safety requirements and maintain certifications.
  • Inspect the machinery and product for quality assurance.
  • Perform daily maintenance on the machinery.
  • Handle materials appropriately and safely.

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CNC Operator Job Description Examples

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What does a CNC Operator do?

CNC Operators typically work for factories and manufacturing plants to ensure product quality by overseeing factory machinery. They control the safe and efficient management of machinery and assembly equipment to create various products. Their job is to review machine manuals to determine the correct method for operations and they pre-program machines to perform tasks at specific intervals. They may also be responsible for requesting new machine parts and conducting standard repairs on machines.

CNC Operator skills and qualifications

CNC Operators will have skills and qualifications related to the field of computers, machinery and product creation. The ideal CNC Operator candidate will demonstrate the following: 

  • Strong math skills for inputting specific dimensions and figures into the CNC machinery
  • Ability to analyze the information provided on blueprints or other explanatory documents to make sure the final product matches the draft
  • Strong computer skills as CNC Operators use computer software to control machinery
  • Understanding of how the machine works to maintain the machinery for which they are responsible and ensure it functions properly.
  • Problem-solving skills in order to detect issues in the creation process and find solutions to ensure the machinery creates the product provided in the draft

CNC Operator salary expectations

A CNC Operator makes an average of $16.55 per hour. Pay rate may be dependent on factors like geographical location, industry, education and job experience.

CNC Operator salary expectations

2025-09-019.8522.3239.75HOURLY
  • Common salary: 22.32 HOURLY
  • Typical salaries range from 9.85 - 39.75 HOURLY
  • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-09-01

CNC Operator education and training requirements

CNC Operators must have a high school diploma at a minimum. Many go on to earn certificates specific to the field in which they hope to work, such as through the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc. (NIMS) or the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, International (FMA). While earning a professional certificate, many CNC Operators work as apprentices or interns in their industry to gain practical experience.

CNC Operator experience requirements

CNC Operators must have experience before gaining full-time employment in their field. Most companies hiring CNC Operators want applicants to have 3 or more years of experience. This experience can be gained through professional coursework, apprenticeships or internships.

Job description samples for similar positions

If you’re writing a job description for a related position to a CNC Operator, see our job descriptions for similar roles: 

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Three individuals are sitting at a table with a laptop, a disposable coffee cup, notebooks, and a phone visible. Two are facing each other, while the third’s back is to the camera. The setting appears to be a bright room with large windows.

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Frequently asked questions about CNC Operators

Job Description Examples

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