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Massachusetts residents, if you’re contemplating your career path, consider diving into the thriving realm of CNC machining.
This article thoroughly examines key aspects of CNC, available training options, and the lucrative financial prospects awaiting proficient practitioners.
So, why hesitate?
Leap into exploration and discover the abundance of opportunities awaiting you in the dynamic world of CNC machining!
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Description
Explore the world of CNC, where precision intersects with innovation.
As a CNC machinist, you’ll command computer-controlled machinery to attain unmatched precision in shaping materials.
From lathes to mills and grinders, each machine in this domain presents distinct capabilities, transforming the manufacturing landscape.
This professional must complete tasks such as:
- Machine Preparation
- Programming and Validation
- Calibration and Adjustment
- Blueprint Interpretation
- Quality Assurance
Of course, every day is different and tasks will vary as well.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
All employers have expectations from their future employees.
Things couldn’t be more true for machinists.
CNC machinists are expected to have:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Relevant Degree or Certification
- Hands-on Experience
- Essential Skills Mastery
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Massachusetts
To become a CNC machinist you must follow some steps.
These steps are detailed below.
Step 1 – Education
Begin with a sturdy educational base, whether by finishing high school or acquiring a GED.
Advance your expertise through formal education at a university, training center, or college.
Remember, a GED serves as a viable alternative if obtaining a high school diploma proves challenging.
Step 2 – Experience
Acquire practical experience through internships and/or apprenticeships.
Hands-on exposure is invaluable for mastering the intricacies of CNC machining.
Step 3 – Certification
Obtain industry-recognized certifications like the one provided by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Several other certifications and diplomas are available to machinists, but NIMS is one of the best.
These credentials authenticate your expertise and distinguish you in the competitive job market.
Step 4 – Job Search
Explore job openings via diverse avenues, including online job boards, career fairs, and networking events.
Leverage resources offered by educational institutions to streamline your job search journey.
CNC Machinist Training in Massachusetts
Enrolling in a CNC machinist training program is the same as completing your education.
These programs will also help you pass the exams for most certifications available in the industry.
North Shore Community College 
This community college offers a training program that is funded by a GE Foundation grant to which Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School and MassHire North Shore Career Center also participate.
The name of the program is Advanced Manufacturing Training Expansion.
This means that students won’t have to pay a cent to enroll.
They also don’t need a high school diploma or GED to enroll.
They do, however, need to be at least 18 years old.
The location of the classes is bound to change, so you’ll have to check the college’s website to know when the next training session starts and where.
Students have 3 programs in which they can enroll, but this is based on their previous education.
These are the programs and who are they intended for:
- NSCC’s Foundational Skills program
- This program is for those who already earned their high school diplomas or GEDs
- NSCC’s HiSET for Machinists program
- This is for those who don’t have a high school diploma/GED
- They will study live and online to prepare for the HiSET exam as well as for the machinist career
- NSCC’s ESL for Machinists program
- This program is for those who don’t speak English
- They will learn English through this program as well as train to be machinists
This college received accreditation from NECHE, the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Bunker Hill Community College 
One of the first things to know about the machinist program at this college is that it doesn’t prepare for any certification.
However, you can still attend the classes and you will be ready to get employed in this field.
The classes are offered online, the tuition is $2,245 and you have access to financial aid through Affirm.
You’ll learn all the skills you need for a CNC machinist job.
The best part is the duration of the course – 195 course hours that you can complete at your own pace in 12 months.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| North Shore Community College | 1 Ferncroft Road, Danvers, MA 01923 |
| Bunker Hill Community College | 250 New Rutherford Avenue Boston, MA 02129 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Massachusetts
Interested in what you could earn?
I have you covered!
In Massachusetts, CNC machinists typically earn a median yearly salary of approximately $55,140.
However, exploring opportunities in specific cities within Iowa may unveil even greater earning potential.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Malden | $57,080 |
| Newton | $57,080 |
| Revere | $57,080 |
| Dover | $57,030 |
| Wayland | $57,000 |
| Beverly | $56,950 |
| Westwood | $56,160 |
| Burlington | $56,149 |
| Cohasset | $56,100 |
| Westford | $55,270 |
Regional Salary in Massachusetts
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnstable Town, MA | 50 | $59,920 | $28.81 | $77,500 | $45,260 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 5,390 | $62,900 | $30.24 | $81,760 | $46,110 |
| Leominster-Gardner, MA | 170 | $58,130 | $27.95 | $75,090 | $43,030 |
| New Bedford, MA | 100 | $56,530 | $27.18 | $78,110 | $35,670 |
| Pittsfield, MA | 80 | $58,720 | $28.23 | $73,630 | $44,490 |
| Springfield, MA-CT | 1,600 | $59,390 | $28.55 | $74,820 | $42,910 |
| Worcester, MA-CT | 950 | $57,460 | $27.63 | $75,660 | $40,180 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a machinist if I stude online in Massachusetts?
Some schools offer this possibility as seen in the article.
Keep in mind that not all such programs will award a credential, but you might still be qualified to get hired.
What are some of the skills a CNC machinist need in Massachusetts?
CNC machinists must excel in the following skills:
- Attention to detail
- Mathematical proficiency
- Inspection expertise
- Adherence to safety protocols
- Endurance for standing
- Material knowledge
- Maintenance of quality standards
- Proficiency in grinding techniques
Other skills may also be needed that re not listed here.
Are CNC machinist salaries good in Massachusetts?
Yes, the salaries in this state for this profession are good, considering this is an entry-level position.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State