To become a CNC machinist, you must complete four steps: post-secondary education, related work experience, certification, and a job interview. A CNC machinist works with large machines to turn a three-dimensional design into a physical product. As the manufacturing sector continues to relocate to other countries, this career is expected to grow at a slower rate in North America over the next five to ten years.
A computer file from a computer assisted design (CAD) program is used the CNC machine to determine which tools are needed and when. This machine has a number of tools that are frequently grouped together into a single cell or unit. The program specifies the design details, but it is the machinist’s responsibility to ensure that the program is correct and produces the desired product in the most efficient manner.
This role is most enjoyable for people who are mechanically inclined, skilled at working with tools, and have excellent hand-to-eye coordination. Despite the fact that CNC machining has traditionally been a male-dominated profession, an increasing number of women are studying to become CNC machinists. A CNC machinist is in charge of the CNC machine’s programming, maintenance, and operation. These machines can be found in manufacturing facilities and cost anywhere between $200,000 and $5 million USD (USD).
To become a CNC machinist, you must first complete a post-secondary education program. A wide variety of community and career colleges offer this program. There used to be a variety of apprenticeship opportunities to become a CNC machinist, but that no longer exists. Rather, candidates must first complete a training program before applying for a position.
On-the-job training as part of the CNC machinist training program provides related work experience. During a job placement course, candidates can put what they’ve learned in class into practice while also gaining experience and references. Consult with an admissions counselor about the various job placement programs that are available.
The government regulates CNC machinists as a skilled trade. To become a journeyman machinist, all machinists must pass a certification exam. The exam is usually multiple choice and is designed to test the candidate’s basic knowledge as well as ensure that he or she is aware of all of the job’s safety requirements.
Take the time to prepare for the job interview during the process. Make a list of common interview questions and prepare your responses ahead of time. As part of the interview process, some employers will administer a brief test of your mechanical abilities. Although a CNC machinist’s advancement opportunities within an organization are limited, a skilled machinist can significantly increase his salary over the course of his career. A master machinist is a subject matter expert who can create new products, train new employees, and supervise a team of machinists.