CNC machinist
Setting and running computer controlled machine tools to make parts to tolerance. Skilled engineering with a real shortage of people.
Also called: Setter operator, turner, miller, machine operative
What it pays
£28,000 to £42,000 a year. Setter operators at the top of that, operators nearer the bottom, and nights add 20 to 30 per cent.
The hours
39 to 42 hours, often double day or three shift patterns.
How you get in
- Level 2 or 3 engineering, or an apprenticeship
- Operators can start with no experience and learn setting
- Reading engineering drawings is the skill that pays
The tickets and qualifications employers ask for
Level 3 Machining Fanuc, Heidenhain or Siemens control experience Metrology and inspection Overhead crane and slinging
What you should not be paying for
Apprenticeships are paid. Employers fund control specific training because it is specific to their machines.
What people like about it
- Genuine shortage of setters, so experience is valuable
- Clean, indoor, skilled work
- Aerospace and medical work pays well
What is genuinely hard
- Shift patterns, including nights
- Tolerance pressure and scrap costs
- Some shops still run old equipment
Where it leads
- Setter, then lead setter
- Programmer (CAM)
- Quality inspector
- Production engineer or team leader
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