How to Become a CNC Machinist in Idaho

Are you drawn to the prospect of pursuing a career as a CNC Machinist?

For residents of Idaho, this vocational journey opens doors to numerous promising prospects.

Though relatively new, the CNC Machinist profession has seen a significant surge in interest in recent years.

To gain deeper insights into this occupation and understand its requirements, delve into the following article.

CNC Machinist Job Description

If CNC you wonder what this acronym means then learn it’s no mystery.

It stands for Computer Numerical Control and this is a new technology installed on a series of machines.

As a CNC machinist, you’ll use computer-driven devices to accurately cut durable materials like metal and plastic.

Within this specialized field, essential machines such as lathes, mills, and grinders each play a unique role, collectively enhancing the manufacturing process.

Your responsibilities as a CNC machinist are more than operating machines, including tasks such as:

• Optimizing machinery to achieve peak performance
• Developing and validating programming codes
• Fine-tuning settings to ensure the utmost accuracy
• Interpreting intricate blueprints and schematics to meet component specifications
• Maintaining stringent quality standards to uphold the excellence of the final products.

CNC Machinist Job Requirements

Every profession has its own set of requirements, and being a CNC machinist is no different.

Outlined below are the criteria for this occupation:

• Completing secondary education with proficiency
• Maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Obtaining a relevant degree or certification within the field
• Accumulating practical experience through hands-on work
• Demonstrating mastery in essential competencies

Becoming a CNC Machinist in Idaho

To become a machinist in this state, you’ll have to follow some steps.

I’ll lay them out for you just below.

Step 1 – Education.

Successfully completing high school and obtaining a diploma is a prerequisite for pursuing a career as a CNC machinist.

However, if obtaining a high school diploma isn’t feasible, pursuing a General Educational Development (GED) certificate is a viable alternative.

Following the attainment of either a high school diploma or GED, attending a post-secondary institution becomes crucial.

These institutions provide certifications or degrees that enhance future career prospects in the field of CNC machining.

For more information on schools offering training programs in Idaho, continue your exploration below.

Step 2 – Experience

Gaining practical job experience is crucial for a CNC machinist, distinct from academic qualifications.

Exploring apprenticeship opportunities through your educational institution can be highly beneficial.

During your apprenticeship, you’ll engage in training sessions alongside experienced machinists, honing your skills and knowledge.

An advantage of apprenticeships is the monetary compensation they offer, providing an opportunity to earn while gaining valuable experience.

Step 3 – Earn More Certification

NIMS, or the National Institute of Metalworking Skills, awards one of the most important credentials in this field.

The certification you’ll earn has no expiry date and is recognized everywhere in the country.

The exam is available online.

Other certifications do exist and earning as many as possible will prove useful for your career as a machinist.

Step 4 – Apply for a Job

Of course, you’ll want to get hired once you’re done training and earning certifications.

Machinist are in high demand, but they should still hone their skills a bit before getting a job.

Finding an apprenticeship first is a good idea because you’ll gain much-needed experience while earning some money.

With some luck, you could be offered a position while still being an apprentice.

CNC Machinist Training in Idaho

I already explained that you do need training to become a machinist.

Let’s see at least one institution from Idaho that provides a CNC machinist program.

College of Southern Idaho

This college offers a program called Machining and Manufacturing Technology.

Students can earn one of the following diplomas:

• Basic Technical Certificate
• Intermediate Technical Certificate
• Associate of Applied Science

The basic certificate lasts for one semester.

During this semester, you’ll collect 12 credits.

The intermediate certification lasts for 2 semesters or a year.

Each semester will award you with 15 credits, for a total of 30.

The AAS program has a duration of 4 semesters, or better said 2 years.

There are a total of 60 credits for this program, with 15 per semester.

CNC Machinist Salary in Idaho

In Idaho, the annual income for CNC machinists typically averages around $47,040.

However, this figure can vary based on factors such as education, location, and qualifications.

For those seeking higher earning potential in the CNC machinist field, it’s worth exploring cities where compensation trends are on the rise.

Regional Salary in Idaho

CNC Machinist by State