CNC Machinist
What is the work like?
Computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery is commonly found in manufacturing and engineering and as a CNC machinist, you would cut, drill, shape and finish products and components (including parts for the machine tools themselves). You would work chiefly with metals but you may also deal with wood, composite materials and plastics.
Your duties could include:
- programming the machine tool with data taken from technical drawings
- planning the most efficient order of machine operations for each job
- selecting the right tools for each stage
- setting the cutting speeds and tolerance levels
- carrying out the operations
- checking that work meets quality and technical standards
- routine maintenance.
CNC machines can produce large quantities of components to exactly the same standard, but you may have to work with hand-operated machine tools, if only small quantities are needed. In these cases, you might use:
- lathes and millers
- cutters and grinders
- machines that combine these functions.
Most of the parts you make would be for use in the automotive, power, aerospace and manufacturing industries.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You could become a CNC machinist by starting out as an engineering apprentice. Employers may ask for GCSEs (A-C), in subjects such as maths, English, science, engineering and design and technology, or equivalent qualifications. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
As an alternative, you could take a college course covering some of the skills needed for this job. Relevant courses include:
- BTEC First Certificate in Engineering
- BTEC National Certificates/Diplomas in Mechanical Engineering
- BTEC National Certificates/Diplomas Manufacturing Engineering.
For general information about engineering as a career, contact SEMTA and Women into Science, Engineering and Construction. The Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland) also has careers information and a course database for local colleges. Contact details for these organisations can be found in the further information section below.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as a machinist, you would receive further on-the-job training. You could choose to study for qualifications that are closely related to your area of work, such as:
- NVQ Performing Engineering Operations at levels 1 and 2
- NVQ Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering at levels 2 and 3
- NVQ Woodmachining at levels 2 and 3
- NVQ Engineering Woodworking, Pattern and Model Making Level 3
- NVQ Engineering Toolmaking Level 3
- EAL Advanced Diploma in Engineering and Technology Level 3
- EAL Diploma Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programming/machining Level 3
Where can I go for more information?
2nd FloorWeston House
246 High Holborn
London
WC1B 7EX
Tel: 020 3206 0408
20-24 York Street
Belfast
BT15 1AQ
Tel: 028 9032 9878
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282167
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are around £14,000 a year.
- Experienced machinists earn around £20,000 a year.
- With supervisory duties, this could rise to £28,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 37 to 40 hours a week. This could include shiftwork, covering weekends, evenings or nights.
You would spend a lot of your time in a factory or workshop, operating and monitoring the machines. You would use mechanical hoists to position heavier materials onto the machines, but lift and place smaller sections by hand.
Most jobs would require you to wear protective overalls, boots, goggles and ear defenders.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to read engineering drawings and instructions
- good practical skills
- computer literacy and a good level of numeracy
- the ability to work to very precise requirements
- a high level of concentration
- the ability to work unsupervised
- a reasonable level of fitness.
What opportunities are there?
You would find most jobs in the mechanical engineering, motor vehicle, aerospace and shipbuilding industries. There could also be vacancies in engineering maintenance, for example in rail transport or power generation.
Your prospects as a qualified CNC machinist are good, with professional bodies like SEMTA reporting a demand for skilled machinists, for example in automotive engineering.
With further training, you could move into supervisory or quality inspection jobs, or move up to technician-level posts in an engineering design or drawing office.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
SCENTA
The Engineer
JustEngineers.net
Engineering Jobs Network
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