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How exposed to AI is a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmer?

Of the 16 tasks O*NET lists for computer numerically controlled tool programmers, 0 could be done in half the time with a chat window today. 5 cannot be sped up at all. Here is which.

Exposure means published research judged an AI could halve the time a task takes, at the same quality. It does not mean the task stops needing a person. How to read this

Also called
CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer)CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator)CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer)CNC Tech (Computer Numerical Control Technician)CNC Tool Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Tool Programmer)Numerical Control Programmer (NC Programmer)Programmer
Reachable today Needs software built first Cannot be sped up
16
tasks rated for this occupation
2%
hold a degree, from a survey of 23
26k
people do this job in the US
1 of 107
least protected in production

Every task, and what AI can do with it

These are O*NET's task statements for this occupation, exactly as written, sorted into the three bands by the ratings behind this report. Nothing has been reworded.

Only with software built on top

11
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper
  • Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers

Cannot be sped up

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
  • Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures
  • Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines
  • Draw machine tool paths on pattern film according to guidelines for tool speed and efficiency, using colored markers
  • Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards
What this does not say

This is not a prediction about your job

Nobody surveyed an employer. Tasks are counted equally, so a percentage here is a share of the list rather than a share of your week. And the ratings were made in 2023, which makes every figure a floor rather than a ceiling.

It must never be used to select anyone for redundancy. The full limits are here.

Where to go next

This is the standard task list for the title. The useful next question is which of the tasks you actually do should go near AI, and which should not.

Sort your own tasks Read the full report

Exposure ratings from Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin and Rock, GPTs are GPTs: Labor market impact potential of LLMs, Science 384, 1306–1308, 2024, used under the MIT licence. This page includes information from the O*NET Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. People Team AI has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. Employment figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.