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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 51-4012 Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
Develop programs to control machining or processing of parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
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Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
OJT: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Tasks: 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. 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. Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time. 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.
License: License not required.
Outlook: Excellent
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $14.57   Entry $30,323.00
Mean $22.56   Mean $46,918.00
Experience $26.55 Experience $55,211.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
610830903.12
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Occupational Videos
51-4012.00 Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic