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CNC Programmer

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March 29, 2024 Updated April 1, 2025 17 minute read

A Career Guide to Becoming a CNC Programmer

A CNC Programmer is a skilled professional who writes the instructions for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. These complex machines use the programmer's code to precisely cut, shape, and process materials like metal, plastic, or wood into finished parts. Think of it as translating a digital design blueprint into a language the machine understands, telling it exactly where to move, how fast to cut, and which tools to use.

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Salaries for CNC Programmer

City
Median
New York
$86,000
San Francisco
$93,000
Seattle
$86,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$86,000
San Francisco
$93,000
Seattle
$86,000
Austin
$93,000
Toronto
$100,000
London
£82,000
Paris
€38,200
Berlin
€58,000
Tel Aviv
₪29,500
Singapore
S$120,000
Beijing
¥123,000
Shanghai
¥185,000
Shenzhen
¥505,000
Bengalaru
₹565,000
Delhi
₹350,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to CNC Programmer

Take the first step.
We've curated 14 courses to help you on your path to CNC Programmer. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
Sorted from most relevant to least relevant:

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.
This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of CNC programming, including setup, operation, and troubleshooting. It's a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced programmers.
A specialized book that covers micromachining processes, including laser cutting, etching, and lithography. Good for researchers and engineers in microelectronics and precision manufacturing.
A comprehensive reference on the design and analysis of all types of machine tools. Includes advanced topics such as CNC and robotics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of turning. It covers topics such as the mechanics of cutting, the selection of cutting tools, and the design of turning machines.
A classic textbook that covers all aspects of metal cutting, including cutting mechanics, tool design, and process optimization. Good for a deep understanding of the fundamentals.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of CNC machining technology, covering topics such as machine design, programming, and operation. It's an excellent resource for students and engineers.
A German-language textbook that covers all aspects of machine tools. Good for students and engineers in German-speaking countries.
A comprehensive overview of additive manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing, laser sintering, and fused deposition modeling. Good for learning about emerging manufacturing techniques.
A comprehensive overview of robotics in manufacturing, including robot design, programming, and applications. Good for learning about the integration of robotics in machine tools.
A practical guide to all aspects of machining, including materials, processes, and tooling. Excellent for learning about specific machining operations.
Focuses on the programming and operation of CNC machines used in turning. It covers topics such as tool path generation, G-code programming, and advanced machining techniques.
An introductory textbook that covers basic principles and operations of all major types of machine tools. Good for a general overview of the topic.
Provides a detailed guide to creating custom macros for Fanuc CNC controls. It's a valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to improve their efficiency.
Covers a wide range of machining processes, including turning, milling, drilling, and grinding. It provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of machining and is suitable for both students and practitioners.
This practical guide teaches you how to use a CNC milling machine to create your own projects. It's a great resource for hobbyists and makers who want to learn more about CNC machining.
Provides a comprehensive guide to CNC programming for machinists. It covers topics such as G-code, M-code, and toolpath generation.
Covers advanced turning techniques such as multi-axis turning, high-speed machining, and hard turning. It is suitable for experienced machinists and those who want to learn more about advanced machining methods.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of CNC programming for engineering and manufacturing. It covers topics such as G-code, M-code, and toolpath generation.
This practical handbook provides step-by-step instructions for programming and operating CNC turning machines. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced machinists.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of CNC technology, including topics such as machine design, programming, and operation. It's a valuable resource for engineers and technicians.
Explores the mathematical foundations of turning and provides a unified framework for understanding the process. It is suitable for advanced students and researchers in the field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of numerical control, including CNC. It's an excellent resource for students and engineers who want to learn more about the theory and practice of numerical control.
This practical guide teaches you how to use CNC and other industrial automation technologies. It's a great resource for engineers and technicians who want to learn more about industrial automation.
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