How to Become a CNC Machinist in Maine

If you want to know more about the occupation of a CNC machinist, you came to the right spot.

This is also a good place to learn more about how you can become one!

So, what are you waiting for?

Continue reading this guide I wrote!

CNC Machinist Job Description

First things first.

You may or may not know that CNC is short for Computer Numerical Control.

This is a new technology that revolutionized certain machines.

3 types of machines use CNC technology – lathes, mills, and grinders.

You can’t get hired for the position of a machinist if you don’t know how to operate them.

With these machines, you can create many different pieces with high precision, through cutting materials.

This is what a CNC machinist must know before getting hired:

• Setting up the machines
• Programming them
• Testing the programs
• Fine-tuning the instructions
• Ability to read and understand blueprints
• Decoding designs to better understand the specifications of the piece
• Ensuring completed parts align with exacting standards

CNC Machinist Job Requirements

One of the first requirements for a CNC machinist is education.

This prerequisite has several aspects:

• High School Completion or having a GED
  • Graduating from high school is a universal requirement
• Achieving a 2.5 GPA
• Obtaining a Degree or Certification
  • This means attending a university, college, or training center program
• Accumulating Experience:
  • Having some CNC experience is important for a machinist

A second requirement is having the necessary skills for the job.

Here are some of them:

• Problem-solving
• Attention to detail
• Math knowledge
• Inspection,
• Adhering to safety measures

Becoming a CNC Machinist in Maine

Most jobs require the candidate to pass through some steps before getting hired.

Next, are the steps a CNC machinist has to follow.

First step – Education

Your journey commences with the accomplishment of high school, culminating in the attainment of your diploma.

For those unable to complete traditional high school education, obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) certificate serves as a viable alternative.

Nevertheless, the journey extends beyond this initial milestone.

The subsequent step entails pursuing a degree in your designated field of interest.

Step 2 – Experience

Participating in an apprenticeship program is an invaluable step towards thriving in the role of a CNC machinist.

Your educational institution of choice often provides tailored apprenticeship opportunities catered specifically to aspiring machinists like yourself.

Under the guidance and mentorship of seasoned professionals, you’ll gain hands-on experience with CNC machinery, honing your skills in a real-world setting.

What’s more, these apprenticeships frequently come with compensation, offering not just valuable experience but also financial rewards that can prove lucrative in the long term.

Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification

After graduating from formal training, you must acquire the NIMS Certification that the National Institute of Metalworking Skills offers.

One good aspect of this credential is its lack of expiration, eliminating the need for periodic renewal hassles.

Furthermore, the examination required for certification comes at no cost, offering accessibility to aspiring CNC machinists.

Candidates are allowed to take the exam multiple times until successful passage is achieved, ensuring a fair chance at certification attainment.

Step 4 – Apply for a Job

Once you’ve concluded your education and training, your final task is to embark on your job search.

The institution where you underwent your training often assists in securing a job placement.

Naturally, you also have the option to explore job opportunities within your local area independently.

CNC Machinist Training in Maine

So, where can you train as a machinist in this state?

Southern Maine Community College

The machinist program offered by this college is available at 2 campuses.

Their addresses are down below.

When you graduate, you’ll obtain a certificate.

Speaking of graduation, this will happen after 2 semesters if you attend full-time.

There are 24 credits to be earned and an average of 15 credits per semester.

The tuition is $3,880 per year, but you have access to financial aid if you need it.

Central Maine Community College

The course offered here is called Precision Machining Technology.

This is a classic program, with in-class teaching and practice hours in the lab.

This program offers a certificate, but students can choose to transfer the credits earned here toward an associate’s degree.

Those who earned the AAS diploma can then pursue the Precision Machining Technology Advanced Certificate program.

The tuition for students who are Maine residents is $3,864, and it includes the mandatory fee of $984.

CNC Machinist Salary in Maine

Let’s check CNC machinist salaries.

Experience and location influence your pay.

In Maine, the average annual salary is $48,840.

This figure can vary due to different factors.

We’ve also listed cities with top CNC machinist salaries.

Regional Salary in Maine

CNC Machinist by State