CNC Operator Certificate

Re-tool your career

Learn in-demand skills: how to setup and operate manufacturing machines for local employers with high-tech environments.

The certificate prepares you with the basic knowledge needed to work as a Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machine operator, manual machinist, or CNC machinist.

Skills include:

introduction to basic manual mills and lathes
CNC machine operation
machine and shop safety
fundamental machining processes
interpreting blueprints
inspection & measuring techniques

What can you do with a CNC Operator Certificate in Precision Machining Technology?

A CNC Operator Certificate prepares you for a career in precision machining technology. The program includes certificates that ladder (or stack) to the associate degree. Each certificate expands the roles you can fill.

Start with CNC Operator, add the CNC Setup Technician Certificate, and then earn the CNC Programming Certificate or the full associate degree. Each certificate builds on the one before it. Certain classes have industry credentials embedded within them. This makes the credentials very attractive to employers and will help you get a job sooner.

You may be able to start an apprenticeship before you finish your program.

NIMS-accredited

The CNC program is accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) and national credentialing is available.

When you complete certain courses, you will be able to take credentialing exams for a fee. Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials. These prepare you for a job and advancement in the high-skilled, high-demand field of metalworking and machining.

Stackable certificates in Precision Machining Technology

In just one semester, gain in-demand and job-ready skills by completing the 8-credit CNC Operator Certificate. Whether you’re seeking professional advancement or a fresh start, stackable certificates offer a prime path to employment in high-tech manufacturing environments.

See what students love about the precision machining technology program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

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Highlights

Accreditation

Accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
Stackable Credentials

Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Apprenticeships Available

Learn and earn through structured on-the-job training.
Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
Career Certificate

Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.

Career Outlook

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $37,418
  
  Median
  
  $49,479
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $67,367
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.98
  
  Median
  
  $23.79
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $32.38
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  51.74%
  
  Certificate
  
  21.16%
  
  Some college
  
  16.8%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  7.08%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  3.22%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $49,272
  
  Median
  
  $65,941
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $95,668
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $23.68
  
  Median
  
  $31.69
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $45.99
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  23.84%
  
  Certificate
  
  40.57%
  
  Some college
  
  6.78%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  19.29%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  9.52%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $32,715
  
  Median
  
  $41,736
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $59,311
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $15.72
  
  Median
  
  $20.06
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $28.51
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  76.09%
  
  Certificate
  
  16.42%
  
  Some college
  
  7.49%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $36,054
  
  Median
  
  $44,386
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $54,005
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.33
  
  Median
  
  $21.33
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $25.96
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  66.64%
  
  Certificate
  
  1.94%
  
  Some college
  
  12.19%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  12.11%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  7.12%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend machines to extrude or draw thermoplastic or metal materials into tubes, rods, hoses, wire, bars, or structural shapes.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $39,240
  
  Median
  
  $51,920
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $78,075
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.86
  
  Median
  
  $24.96
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $37.53
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  88.33%
  
  Certificate
  
  11.22%
  
  Doctorate
  
  0.45%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend forging machines to taper, shape, or form metal or plastic parts.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $46,511
  
  Median
  
  $52,770
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $63,528
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.35
  
  Median
  
  $25.37
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $30.53
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  100%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend grinding and related tools that remove excess material or burrs from surfaces, sharpen edges or corners, or buff, hone, or polish metal or plastic work pieces.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $35,967
  
  Median
  
  $45,122
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58,233
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.29
  
  Median
  
  $21.69
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $27.99
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  81.53%
  
  Certificate
  
  14.28%
  
  Some college
  
  4.2%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

View program in catalog

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Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
PMT 110	PMT 110 Manufacturing Your Success Class Description This course will focus on core academic and trade skills to support students' transition during their first semester in the Precision Machining program. The student will be supported while they complete their first semester studying modern machining techniques and earning industry certifications. Emphasis will be placed on mentoring and supporting the students and this course will parallel that of the student's core classes during the first semester. Students will be supported in registering and preparing for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), learn the proper operation of the Machinist Calculator and how to locate and interpret technical information in the Machinist Handbook.	1
PMT 112	PMT 112 Blueprint Reading & Precision Measurement Class Description This course prepares students to understand technical information when reading manufacturing blueprints and how to use semi-precision and precision measuring tools. Attention is given to visualization and training in the interpretation of blueprints to determine what appropriate measuring tools are needed to perform accurate measurements. Students will study how to calibrate, maintain, and read dial, digital, and vernier measuring tools. They will also learn to use information located in the title block to calculate acceptable basic and GD&T tolerances for part features and complete inspection reports. Students will complete instructional activities designed to prepare them for obtaining their level one Materials Measurement and Safety credential and Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3
PMT 114	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3
EWE 120	EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills Class Description This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 110
Course Title	PMT 110 Manufacturing Your Success Class Description This course will focus on core academic and trade skills to support students' transition during their first semester in the Precision Machining program. The student will be supported while they complete their first semester studying modern machining techniques and earning industry certifications. Emphasis will be placed on mentoring and supporting the students and this course will parallel that of the student's core classes during the first semester. Students will be supported in registering and preparing for credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), learn the proper operation of the Machinist Calculator and how to locate and interpret technical information in the Machinist Handbook.
Credits	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 112
Course Title	PMT 112 Blueprint Reading & Precision Measurement Class Description This course prepares students to understand technical information when reading manufacturing blueprints and how to use semi-precision and precision measuring tools. Attention is given to visualization and training in the interpretation of blueprints to determine what appropriate measuring tools are needed to perform accurate measurements. Students will study how to calibrate, maintain, and read dial, digital, and vernier measuring tools. They will also learn to use information located in the title block to calculate acceptable basic and GD&T tolerances for part features and complete inspection reports. Students will complete instructional activities designed to prepare them for obtaining their level one Materials Measurement and Safety credential and Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 114
Course Title	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	EWE 120
Course Title	EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills Class Description This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.
Credits	1

Total Credit Hours

8

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Precision Machining Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

A CNC Operator Certificate is just one possible way to study Precision Machining Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials, and extra options.

View the Precision Machining Technology program overview

Frequently asked questions

To succeed in machining and metalworking, you need to be able to:
- work with your hands
- work both independently and as a team player
- prioritize
- organize
- pay attention to detail
- motivate yourself
- think critically
- solve problems
- use hand and power tools comfortably
- write clearly
After completing this certificate, you qualify to take the exams for these NIMS Level 1 certifications:
- NIMS Level 1: Measurement, Materials, and Safety
- NIMS Level 1: Job Planning Benchwork and Layout
- NIMS Level 1: Manual Milling Skills I
- NIMS Level 1: Turning Operations: Turning Between Centers
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Milling: Operations
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Turning: Operations
- NIMS Level 1: Grinding Skills I
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Milling: Programming, Setup and Operations
- NIMS Level 1: CNC Turning: Programming, Setup and Operations
You may also compete in SkillsUSA.
The CNC Operator Certificate prepares you with the basic knowledge needed to work as a CNC machine operator, manual machinist or CNC machinist.
You learn how to:
- operate manual mills and lathes
- run a CNC machine
- stay safe around machines and in the shop
- interpret blueprints
- inspect & measure
Employers who offer these types of jobs in Lake County include:
- A.L. Hansen
- Endo Plus
- HN Precision
- KNUTH Machine Tools USA
- Laser Precision, LLC
- Ludlow Manufacturing
- Lyndex-Nikken
- Metcalf Machine
- NYPRO Mold
- NyproMold
- Qualitek Manufacturing, Inc
- West Machine Products

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Re-tool your career

What can you do with a CNC Operator Certificate in Precision Machining Technology?

NIMS-accredited

Stackable certificates in Precision Machining Technology

Highlights

Accreditation

Stackable Credentials

Apprenticeships Available

Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Career Certificate

Career Outlook

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help?

Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 8 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Precision Machining Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Frequently asked questions

What are some skills I need to be successful in this program?

What exams will I qualify for?

What skills will I learn in this program?

Where will I find these types of jobs in Lake County?

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