Trade Schools
Computer Numerical Controlled Machinists are highly skilled manufacturing and production professionals who use computer-aided software and designs to fabricate unique parts and tools for distribution to customers in the aerospace, automotive, defense, and healthcare industries.
These well-trained professionals specialize in crafting complex parts and tools to scale using various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.
Key responsibilities of today’s Machine Operators include making precise measurements to manufacture parts and tools, calibrating machines, programming machines, reading blueprints, and performing quality control checks during and after production.
CNC Machinists seeking to broaden their technical skill set, increase their salaries, and take on more challenging roles can consider alternative careers.
These careers share various transferable skills that make it easy for a working Machine Operator to change or uplevel their careers without the need for extended formal education.
6 Alternative Careers for CNC Machinists
CNC Machinists seeking to use their existing skill sets in alternative careers can gain insight by learning more about careers where they can easily transition into higher-paying roles with fewer physical demands, greater exposure to emerging technologies, and stronger job stability.
Learn more about a few alternative careers for CNC Machinists in the informative career comparison guide below.
1. CNC Tool Programmer
Job Description
Highly skilled CNC Machinists looking to make an easy transition into a similar career role should consider becoming CNC or CAD Tool Programmers.
These manufacturing professionals are on the opposite end of the production scale as they encode CNC tools with the instructions and programs needed to produce custom-made parts and tools for a variety of industries.
Transferable Skills
- Blueprint Reading
- CNC Operations
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Tool Selection and CNC Machine Knowledge
- Time Management Skills
- Manufacturing and Production Skills
Potential Requirements
Machinists considering making the switch to becoming CNC Tool Programmers will need to meet some of the same basic skills and educational requirements as CNC operators.
Tool Programmers will need to have a high school education or GED.
They will also need to have manufacturing experience, CAD software training, and knowledge of CNC machine code, including G-code and M-code.
Benefits
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Higher Earnings Potential
- Easy Transition
- Short Training Period
2. Tool and Die Maker
Job Description
Tool and Die Makers are manufacturing and production professionals who work closely with machinists.
Their primary job duties involve creating the tools, dies, and molds used by Machinists to fabricate precision parts and tools.
Precision Machinists are well-paid professionals relied upon by Machinists, manufacturing professionals, and the clients they work for to provide the blueprints for custom parts and tools used in the aerospace, automotive, aviation, defense, and medical or healthcare industries.
Transferable Skills
CNC Machinists considering taking on the role of Tool and Die Makers have a head start as these two key manufacturing roles have a variety of overlapping skills which include some of the following:
- Blueprint Reading
- Communication Skills
- Machine Expertise
- Mathematics
- Precision Measurements
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Time Management Skills
- Tool Calibration
- Troubleshooting
- Tool and Die Maintenance
- Quality Control
Potential Requirements
Incoming Tool and Die Makers will need to have proficiency in operating CNC machines and tools including mills, lathes, and grinders.
Machinists switching careers can easily transition into the role of a Tool and Die Maker with previous knowledge of computer-aided drafting software, reading blueprints, and taking precise measures for tools and parts manufactured to customer specifications.
Benefits
- Higher Take-Home Pay
- Specialized Role
- High Demand
- Flexibility in Work Locations
- Greater Job Stability
3. 3D Printing Technician
Job Description
3D printers are becoming a staple of everyday life as we use them in manufacturing, homes, schools, and local community facilities like hospitals.
The role of a 3D Printing Technician is very similar to the role of a CNC Machinist as it involves operating and maintaining three-dimensional printers to create parts, prototypes, and models.
3D Printers use CAD software to generate and scale designs for production.
Transferable Skills
- Computer-Aided Drafting Software
- Creating Custom-Made Parts and Tools
- Manufacturing Processes
- Material Knowledge
- Precision and Accuracy for Measurements
- Technical Knowledge of Machinery
- Quality Control Processes
- Safety Skills
Potential Requirements
Machinists thinking about becoming 3D Printing Techs will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent along with hands-on training or formal training in the role.
The physical requirements of CNC Machinists and 3D Printers are similar as both require extended periods of lifting, standing, and transporting parts, materials, and supplies ranging from lightweight tools to heavy-duty machinery.
Benefits
- Collaborative Work Environment
- Diverse Project Scope
- Enhanced Technical Expertise
- Faster Production Times
- Highly Transferable Skills
- Increased Job Satisfaction
- Leadership Roles
- Reduced Physical Workload
- Exposure to Cutting Edge Technologies
4. Technical Sales
CNC Machinists considering transferring into the role of Technical Sales have a unique opportunity to leverage their knowledge of the manufacturing industry, processes, and products into a career with unlimited earnings potential.
Job Description
Technical Sales representatives are integral parts of manufacturing and production teams.
Their role involves communicating directly with customers and end users to explain how products work, troubleshooting technical products, and acting as a primary point of contact between customers and manufacturers or producers.
Transferable Skills
Machinists can parlay their knowledge of the manufacturing processes involved with crafting complex parts into a sales position where they explain the uses and benefits of the same products to the customers who need them.
Transitioning machinists bring product knowledge, problem-solving skills, knowledge of manufacturing processes, and technical ability to the role.
Potential Requirements
Career switchers without technical sales knowledge may be required to enroll in sales training or job shadowing to gain experience in the technical sales industry.
Benefits
Machinists who take on technical sales roles can see an increase in their earnings potential which can include bumps in salary along with commissions and performance-based bonuses.
Technical salespersons can easily boost their careers by becoming sales managers, product specialists, or manufacturing specialists.
5. Machinery Training Instructor
Machinery Training Instructors are manufacturing professionals who specialize in training individuals and teams on how to use simple and complex manufacturing equipment and tools.
This is an ideal role for CNC Machinists looking to spice up their careers as they transition from working on and calibrating CNC machines to training departments and teams on their use and operation.
Job Description
Training instructors are typically responsible for creating easy-to-follow training programs for manufacturing employees and trainees.
They teach their students how to properly set up, program, operate, and troubleshoot manufacturing equipment and machines according to the latest industry standards.
Transferable Skills
Technical proficiency in the setup and operation of CNC Machines and related equipment can directly contribute to the success of career changes taking on new roles as Machinery Training Instructors.
Additional skills that blend seamlessly with the new role include in-depth knowledge of manufacturing industry standards and practices along with problem-solving, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting skills.
Potential Requirements
Individuals seeking to advance their careers in this area may want to consider gaining teaching credentials or certifications that demonstrate competency and professionalism in the field.
Benefits
The benefits of moving into an instructional training role include being able to pass on hands-on knowledge and money-making skills to trainees and a greater sense of job satisfaction when students excel based on your instruction.
Former Machinists can enjoy the benefits of less physical strain as educating trainees is substantially less strenuous than working in a hands-on manufacturing role.
6. Operations Manager
Manufacturing facilities employ Operations Managers to oversee the daily operations of production businesses.
CNC Machinists who have their sights set on a higher-paying leadership role can use their existing skills to become Facility managers who ensure that the manufacturing facilities they manage consistently meet efficiency, production, quality, and safety standards.
Job Description
Job duties of Operations Managers can include creating and modifying production schedules and workflows to meet critical deadlines.
Operations Managers are tasked with supervising staff along with managing manufacturing budgets, inventory, production goals, and allocating resources for more efficient order processing.
Transferable Skills
CNC Machine Operator skills that translate directly into the role of Operations Management include technical expertise for manufacturing products, machines, and employees.
Transferring Machinists also bring troubleshooting skills, time-management, team collaboration, and process optimization skills to the table when starting new careers as Operations Managers.
Potential Requirements
Career changers who are serious about becoming facility managers have options for earning management experience by taking management courses, earning industry certifications, or taking advantage of on-the-job training.
Benefits
Operations Managers have a broad influence on the facilities and employees they manage.
They also have much higher earnings potential than the CNC Machinists they oversee and increased opportunities for career advancement into even more challenging and higher-paying roles.
Tips for Transitioning Careers
- Read books, attend networking sessions, and take advantage of job shadowing and on-the-job training for your desired role.
- Update your resume to reflect newly gained professional credentials, including professional training courses and industry certifications.
- Participate in networking events centered around the new career role you wish to take on.
- Consider taking on freelance opportunities to practice newly gained skills and gain more hands-on experience when entering your new field.
Final Thoughts
CNC Machinists possess a variety of hands-on, practical, and technical skills that make it easy for them to transition into a variety of related careers.
Most Machinists can make the transition by getting formal training in their desired role or taking advantage of on-the-job training opportunities.
Use the tips above when preparing to transition from the role of CNC Machinist into a higher-paying or more challenging role.
Research job openings and formal training programs to learn more about your desired role to take the next step in up-leveling your career!
