Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
How AI Impacts Each Task
17 tasks analyzed
Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes.
Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.
Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
Draw machine tool paths on pattern film, using colored markers and following guidelines for tool speed and efficiency.
Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.
Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.
Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.
Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards.
Order tooling for jobs.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks. | 65.7Observed | 53.3% | 15% | |
| Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes. | 69Estimated | 54.6% | 10% | |
| Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved. | 62.95Observed | 52.2% | 10% | |
| Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates. | 69Estimated | 54.6% | 12% | |
| Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 5% | |
| Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications. | 60Estimated | 51.0% | 8% | |
| Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper. | 90Estimated | 85.2% | 5% | |
| Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 3% | |
| Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency. | 61.68Observed | 51.7% | 8% | |
| Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures. | 69Estimated | 54.6% | 8% | |
| Draw machine tool paths on pattern film, using colored markers and following guidelines for tool speed and efficiency. | 75Estimated | 63.0% | 2% | |
| Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 3% | |
| Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers. | 75Estimated | 63.0% | 2% | |
| Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions. | 90Estimated | 85.2% | 3% | |
| Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines. | 10Estimated | 13.0% | 2% | |
| Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards. | 40Estimated | 49.0% | 2% | |
| Order tooling for jobs. | 92Estimated | 86.0% | 2% |
Skill Impact Analysis
AI-Vulnerable Skills (6)
High reliance on Programming is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Information Ordering is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Reading Comprehension is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
Memorization is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
AI-Resistant Skills (11)
Adaptability/Flexibility is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Complex Problem Solving is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Leadership is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Coordination is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Equipment Maintenance is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Manual Dexterity is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Social Perceptiveness is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Instructing is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
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Risk reduction and salary impact are estimates based on skill gap analysis, course relevance, and labor market data. Actual results vary by individual circumstance.
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Score History
Risk score over 2 scoring runs
overall change
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Education Level
Prior Experience Needed
Work experience required to enter this job
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
Last scored March 14, 2026 · Based on BLS employment data and O*NET task analysis