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Do you want to work as a CNC machinist in Minnesota?
If this is the case, you should first learn more about the requirements of this job.
Keep in mind this is a new profession, but that doesn’t make it less popular.
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Description
I promised I’d explain what CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control.
A CNC machinist usually works with a variety of computer-controlled machines that are utilized for cutting hard materials such as metal or plastic.
Some of these machines that utilize this technology include:
- Lathes,
- Mills,
- Grinders
You will of course have some daily tasks to complete.
Some of these include:
- Configuring machinery
- Crafting and validating programs
- Fine-tuning operations as required
- Deciphering schematics and plans to grasp component specifications
- Ensuring the produced parts adhere to specifications
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
Essential criteria for a CNC Machinist position encompass:
- Completion of high school education
- Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Securing a relevant degree or certification
- Amassing practical experience
- Possessing requisite skill sets
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Minnesota
Exploring a career path as a CNC Machinist involves several key stages worth noting.
Step 1: Education
Initiating your journey begins with achieving a high school diploma.
Alternatively, securing a GED serves as an acceptable equivalent.
Yet, the educational pursuit doesn’t end there.
Enrolling in a post-secondary institution becomes imperative.
So, you will need to get either a certification or a degree within the relevant field.
I’ll gladly point out a selection of institutions worthy of consideration for your enrollment.
Step 2 – Experience
While the initial educational step is important, getting experience is essential if you want to get a certification or degree.
Moreover, programs facilitating such qualifications often offer support in securing apprenticeships.
You will get to work with experienced CNC machinists and learn more about the job.
You should know that apprenticeships typically offer compensation for the valuable learning experience they provide.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
This certification is provided by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
This certification doesn’t ever expire, so you can use it for as long as you want.
More importantly, the exam you will need to take is free.
You can also take it as many times as you need until you pass it.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Upon completing your apprenticeship program, you are probably ready to start your job hunting.
You may have to look for a job yourself.
However, there exists the prospect of receiving assistance in job placement from the institution where you trained, especially if they facilitated your apprenticeship opportunity.
CNC Machinist Training in Minnesota
So, where can you train in this state?
Take a look at the schools below to get a better idea.
Minneapolis Community & Technical College 
The CNC Machinist program at Minneapolis College is designed to equip you with the technical and problem-solving skills needed to be successful.
Some of the classes you will attend are:
- Traditional machining techniques
- Cutting-edge computer applications
- Computer-aided design and manufacturing
- Computer programming
- Safety protocols
- Precision measurement methodologies
- Blueprint interpretation skills
- Mastery of crucial mathematical calculations.
You will also be attending practical classes like:
- Turning
- Milling
- Drilling
- Grinding methodologies
You should also know that classes start every August.
The school offers job placement as well.
Minnesota State College Southeast 
The course offered here teaches the basics of machining.
Those who graduate will receive a certificate.
Students can complete the program in just one semester and gain 13 credits.
The total tuition is around $3,000 and it covers:
- Books
- Supplies
- Minimum of tools needed
- Other fees
- The tuition
The good news about this course is that 70% of it is hands-on training.
University of St. Thomas 
The CNC machinist training program is offered through the School of Engineering.
The course can be attended by both high school students and people over 18.
However, there are 2 distinct programs for the 2 age groups.
What the programs have in common are:
- Free of charge
- Included lunch for high schoolers
- Included dinner for adults
High school students will attend 5 sessions from 9 am to 4 pm.
Adults must attend from Monday through Thursday or Friday, totaling 9 sessions.
There are no prerequisites for the programs.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis Community & Technical College | 1501 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 |
| Minnesota State College Southeast | 1250 Homer Road Winona, MN 55987 |
| University of St. Thomas | 2115 Summit Ave, OSS 100 St. Paul Minnesota 55105 USA |
CNC Machinist Salary in Minnesota
You are probably interested in how much you can earn.
Of course, your earnings will be influenced by factors such as the city you are in and your experience.
The median salary for a CNC machinist in Minnesota is $51,920.
You can have a look at the table below for a list of the locations with the higher median salary for this profession.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Minnetonka | $53,980 |
| Hopkins | $53,980 |
| Eden Prairie | $53,890 |
| Champlin | $53,860 |
| Excelsior | $53,830 |
| Chanhassen | $53,800 |
| Lakeville | $53,640 |
| Afton | $53,580 |
| Cleveland | $53,520 |
| Gaylord | $53,520 |
Regional Salary in Minnesota
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duluth, MN-WI | 220 | $59,470 | $28.59 | $77,340 | $41,830 |
| Mankato-North Mankato, MN | 160 | $55,190 | $26.54 | $67,960 | $42,550 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | 7,850 | $59,820 | $28.76 | $75,610 | $43,610 |
| Rochester, MN | 420 | $58,570 | $28.16 | $67,130 | $41,190 |
| St. Cloud, MN | 460 | $57,680 | $27.73 | $66,980 | $44,470 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to train as a CNC Machinist in Minnesota?
As seen in the article yes you must train.
Those who hire inexperienced or unfamiliar with a CNC machine, are rare and far between, so it will be difficult to get a job.
Do I have to continue my education as a CNC machinist in Minnesota?
In short, yes.
This is an industry that can evolve rather fast, and machinists must know the newest applications.
How good are the salaries for CNC machinists in Minnesota?
Considering that CNC machinists I presented here, hold an entry-level job, their salary is quite good.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State