Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a CNC Programmer
What CNC programmers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review a new aerospace bracket model and drawing with the engineer. From there, the day usually includes read drawings, models and GD&T callouts, plan machining operations and fixturing, and create toolpaths in CAM software. Most work full-time day shifts, with occasional overtime for new product launches.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a CNC programmer working full time.
- Review a new aerospace bracket model and drawing with the engineer.
- Plan operations and design a fixture for two setups.
- Program roughing and finishing toolpaths in Mastercam.
- Simulate the program and check for collisions.
- Prove out the first part with the machinist, running the program at reduced feed.
- Adjust a finishing pass after the CMM shows a dimension near the limit.
- Finalize the setup sheet and release the program.
Where CNC programmers work
Programmers work in offices next to the shop floor and at machines during prove-outs. The shop is noisy, with coolant and moving machinery.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time day shifts, with occasional overtime for new product launches.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read drawings, models and GD&T callouts
- Plan machining operations and fixturing
- Create toolpaths in CAM software
- Select tools, feeds and speeds
- Post-process and verify G-code programs
- Prove out programs and optimize cycle times
- Write setup sheets and support machinists
Tools you’ll use every day
- CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion or Esprit
- CAD software such as SolidWorks
- CNC mills, lathes and multi-axis machines
- Machine simulation software
- Tool presetters
- Calipers, micrometers and CMM reports
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Combines computers and hands-on manufacturing
- Higher pay than operating machines
- Strong demand in aerospace, medical and automotive
- Continuous learning with new software and machines
What’s hard
- Pressure to hit deadlines and cycle times
- Mistakes can crash expensive machines
- Software changes require ongoing learning
- Split time between desk and shop
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like computers and machines equally
- I enjoy solving geometry and math problems
- I’m detail-oriented
- I like improving how things are made
- I can work with machinists and engineers
- I want to move beyond operating machines
Not sure? Take the free CNC Programmer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Keep machine doors closed and guards in place
- Simulate programs before running them
- Wear eye protection on the shop floor
- Follow lockout procedures when working in machines