Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for CNC Technician

💰 $ - $

ManufacturingCNCEngineering

🎯 Role Definition

A CNC Technician is responsible for operating, setting up, programming, and maintaining CNC machines (mills and lathes) to produce precision parts to print. The CNC Technician converts engineering drawings into accurate machine programs (G-code), performs machine setups, selects tooling and fixtures, measures and inspects finished parts for conformance to specifications, troubleshoots machine and process issues, and supports continuous improvement and safety initiatives in a high-mix, high-precision manufacturing environment.

Key search terms: CNC Technician, CNC Programmer, CNC Operator, CNC Machinist, CNC Mill, CNC Lathe, G-code, CAD/CAM, Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, GD&T, precision machining, setup, tooling, inspection.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Entry-level CNC Operator
  • Machining Apprentice / Trade School Graduate
  • Manufacturing Technician / Production Associate

Advancement To:

  • CNC Programmer / Senior CNC Technician
  • Master Machinist
  • Process / Manufacturing Engineer
  • Production Supervisor or Shop Foreman
  • Tooling Engineer or CNC Team Lead

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Inspector (CMM/Metrology)
  • Maintenance Technician / Industrial Mechanic
  • CAM Programmer / CAD Designer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform full machine setups on CNC mills and lathes by reading blueprints and engineering drawings, selecting appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, collets, and workholding, and verifying correct spindle speeds, feed rates, and tool offsets to achieve specified tolerances.
  • Write, edit, validate, and optimize G-code programs (manual G-code and post-processed CAM output) for 2‑ to 5‑axis CNC machines using industry-standard controls (Fanuc, Haas, Siemens, Mazak) to ensure efficient, accurate machining and minimize cycle time.
  • Use CAM and CAD software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidWorks CAM, Edgecam) to generate toolpaths and simulate machining operations; collaborate with engineers to translate 3D models into manufacturable processes.
  • Perform first-article setups and trial runs; validate part dimensions and geometric tolerances using precision measurement tools and inspection equipment before authorizing full production runs.
  • Conduct in-process and final inspection using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, surface gauges, optical comparators, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to verify parts meet GD&T and print requirements.
  • Troubleshoot machining defects, tool wear, chatter, runout, coolant/air supply issues, and machine alarms; implement corrective actions such as tool changes, feed/speed adjustments, fixturing modifications, or program edits to restore quality.
  • Maintain accurate setup sheets, tooling lists, program revisions, and production logs; document non-conformances, corrective actions, and lessons learned to support traceability and continuous improvement.
  • Changeover and set up complex multi-op sequences, including live-tool lathe and mill-turn operations, rotary axes, and multi-pallet systems to meet short lead times and quick-turn production demands.
  • Optimize tooling strategies by evaluating insert grades, tool geometries, coatings, and holders to extend tool life, improve surface finish, and reduce cycle times and scrap rates.
  • Perform preventive maintenance and basic repairs on CNC equipment, including cleaning filters, checking lubrication systems, replacing worn or broken components, and coordinating with maintenance technicians for major issues.
  • Collaborate with production planners and supervisors to sequence jobs, prioritize urgent work, and meet daily production schedules while minimizing setup time and maximizing machine uptime.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for repeatable quality issues using 5-why, fishbone diagrams, or similar methodologies and implement process controls to prevent recurrence.
  • Implement and follow shop safety, lockout/tagout, and PPE protocols; identify potential hazards in fixtures, tooling, and workholding and recommend safer processes or guards.
  • Support continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing initiatives (SMED, 5S, Kaizen) by recommending setup reductions, standardized tooling carts, and work instructions to increase throughput and reduce waste.
  • Train and mentor junior CNC operators and apprentices on machine operation, safe practices, blueprint reading, measurement techniques, and basic programming concepts to build bench strength.
  • Verify material type, heat treatment, and surface finish specifications; adjust machining strategies for challenging materials such as stainless steels, exotic alloys, titanium, and hardened steels.
  • Coordinate with Quality and Engineering to implement engineering change notices (ECNs), update programs and fixtures, and validate new process parameters after design changes.
  • Manage tooling inventory and rapport with vendors to procure specialized cutting tools, collets, fixtures, and inserts; evaluate vendor tooling performance and cost-effectiveness.
  • Utilize SPC data and in-process measurements to monitor process stability, make real-time adjustments, and escalate to engineering when capability limits are reached.
  • Program and run automated inspection routines on CNC or CMM platforms and ensure measuring equipment is calibrated and certified per ISO/AS standards.
  • Set up and operate secondary operations such as tapping, deburring, reaming, grinding, or assembly as required to deliver customer-ready components.
  • Read and interpret complex geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), finish symbols, and critical feature callouts to prioritize inspection and fixture design accordingly.
  • Support new product introductions (NPIs) by developing process documentation, control plans, tooling requirements, and run books to transition parts into sustained production.
  • Participate in cross-functional problem-resolution meetings with manufacturing engineering, quality, and procurement to resolve supply chain, tooling, or machine capability constraints that impact delivery.
  • Monitor machine performance metrics (OEE, cycle times, downtime reasons) and work on initiatives to improve overall equipment effectiveness and reduce bottlenecks.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in continuous improvement projects by providing machining expertise for fixture design and manufacturability feedback.
  • Maintain and update digital machining documentation, tool libraries, and program repositories to ensure version control and quick retrieval.
  • Support calibration and preventive maintenance scheduling for metrology equipment and gages used on the shop floor.
  • Contribute to safety audits and participate in root-cause investigations for incidents involving machine operation or material handling.
  • Help evaluate new tooling technologies and participate in cost-benefit analyses to justify investments that reduce cycle time or improve part quality.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficient in CNC programming and editing G-code for Fanuc, Haas, Siemens, and Mazak controls.
  • Strong experience with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidCAM, Edgecam) and CAD basics (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to generate and modify toolpaths.
  • Hands-on setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes (2‑axis, 3‑axis, 4‑axis, 5‑axis, mill-turn) including live tooling and rotary setups.
  • Blueprint reading and application of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) to ensure features are manufactured to specification.
  • Proficient with precision measurement instruments: micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, optical comparators, and CMM operation.
  • Tool selection and tooling systems knowledge (indexable inserts, end mills, drills, collets, holders, reamers, taps).
  • Process troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills for machining defects, chip control, and tool life issues.
  • Experience with SPC, control charts, and basic statistical analysis to monitor process capability.
  • Preventive maintenance and minor mechanical/electrical repair skills for CNC equipment.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing best practices including Lean, 5S, and SMED for setup reduction and process improvement.
  • Ability to program and interpret machining sequences for multi-op parts, including fixturing/layout planning.
  • Familiarity with shop floor safety practices, lockout/tagout, and COSHH/MSDS where applicable.
  • Competence in using shop software systems: MES, ERP, tool management, and program repositories.

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and a quality-first mindset to consistently meet tight tolerances.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to diagnose and resolve process and machine issues.
  • Clear written and verbal communication to document setups, handoffs, and to interact with engineers and quality personnel.
  • Time management and organizational skills for multi-job prioritization and efficient setup changeovers.
  • Team-oriented attitude with the ability to train, mentor, and collaborate across production, maintenance, and engineering.
  • Adaptability and continuous learning mindset to stay current with new machining technologies and tooling strategies.
  • Initiative and ownership for driving improvements and delivering results under production pressures.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED with vocational training or relevant on-the-job experience in machining.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate degree or technical certificate in CNC Machining, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or Mechanical Engineering Technology.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • CNC Machining / Precision Machining
  • Manufacturing Technology / Industrial Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Tool and Die / Machine Tool Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1–5 years of hands-on CNC setup and operation experience for junior to intermediate roles.
  • 5+ years preferred for senior CNC Technician or programmer roles with multi-axis programming and process development responsibility.

Preferred:

  • Proven experience programming and operating Fanuc, Haas, or Mazak controls.
  • Demonstrated success with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360) and CMM inspection.
  • Background in precision manufacturing industries such as aerospace, medical devices, automotive, or defense where tight tolerances and quality systems (AS9100, ISO 13485, ISO 9001) are required.
Explore More Careers