Grows with AI

Computer numerically controlled tool programmers

Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.

AI Resistance Index 23 of 99

Changing faster than most: more resilient than 23% of the 831 careers we score. AI exposure is very high (the Bureau of Labor Statistics rates it very high), and US jobs are projected to change by +5.9% by 2035, faster than average. The work leans on physical dexterity and creative vision.

AI can help with many of the tasks, and demand is still growing. Being fluent with AI is the edge here.

Median pay (2025): $68,120
Job growth to 2035: +5.9%
Openings a year: 2,700
People doing it (2025): 28,600
Usual route in: College certificate, then moderate on-the-job training

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Where people already use AI for this work

Program computer systems or production equipment
Determine operational methods or procedures
Select materials or equipment for operations or projects

From Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025).

Work AI rarely helps with

Position materials or components for assembly

What the work looks like

Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.

From O*NET 31.0, US Department of Labor.

What the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects

More of these jobs, as manufacturers increase efficiency through more computer numerically controlled (CNC), automated, and programmable machines requiring programming by these workers.

Careers using similar strengths, with a stronger outlook

Patternmakers, woodHuman edge, steady, Index 59, -2.0%
Tool and die makersHuman edge, steady, Index 39, -9.2%
Jewelers and precious stone and metal workersHuman edge, steady, Index 51, -3.2%
Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblersHuman edge, steady, Index 46, -5.6%

Also known as: CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator), CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer), Programmer, CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer), CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer), CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator), CNC Tech (Computer Numerical Control Technician).

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Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2025 to 2035; O*NET 31.0; Microsoft Research (2025); Anthropic Economic Index (2026); Eloundou and colleagues (Science, 2024); Felten, Raj and Seamans (2023). How we score. Updated 12 October 2026.