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Considering a career as a CNC machinist in Mississippi?
Let’s delve into what it entails.
This field may be relatively new, but it’s gaining traction.
The article below will offer info on what it means to be a CNC machinist in this state.
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
The first thing you should know CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control.
As a CNC machinist, you’ll work with computer-controlled machines like lathes, mills, and grinders to cut tough materials like metal or plastic.
Your daily tasks will involve:
- Configuring machinery
- Creatingand testing programs
- Adjusting operations
- Interpreting blueprints
- Ensuring precision in production.
You will of course have some daily tasks to complete.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
As for the requirements for a CNC Machinist role, they include:
- High school diploma completion
- Maintaining a GPA of at least 2.5
- Obtaining a relevant degree or certification
- Accumulating practical experience
- Possessing the necessary skill sets
These skills are outlined below in the FAQ section of this article.
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Mississippi
Just like with any other job, you will be required to take some steps before getting hired.
Step 1: Education
Your journey will start with obtaining a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a GED.
However, the pursuit of education doesn’t cease there.
It’s crucial to enroll in post-secondary institutions.
You must obtain certification or a degree in your chosen field.
We will show you some of the schools where you can complete your training later on.
Step Two: Gain Experience
While education is vital, hands-on experience is equally crucial.
Programs often assist in securing apprenticeships, where you will learn from experienced professionals.
Apprenticeships usually come with compensation for your learning efforts.
Step Three: Obtain NIMS Certification
The National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) offers this certification.
The exam required to get this certification is free, so don’t have to pay any fee.
You will be able to retake the exam until you succeed.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
After successfully finishing your apprenticeship program, you’re likely eager to kick off your job search.
It may fall upon you to seek out job opportunities independently.
Yet, there’s a possibility of receiving support in job placement from the institution where you underwent training.
This is more common if it is the same school where you finished your apprenticeship.
CNC Machinist Training in Mississippi
After you finish your education requirements, it is now time to get into a training program.
Read below for some info on schools where you can train in this state.
Mississippi State University 
This school offers a CNC Machinist course, tailored to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to jumpstart your career swiftly.
This comprehensive program offers a deep dive into the intricacies of CNC machining.
It covers a spectrum of important areas including:
- Work Holding
- Mathematics
- Inspection techniques
- Safety protocols
- Metal cutting methodologies
- Materials science, quality assurance
- Grinding techniques
Some of the classes you will take include the following:
- Implementing Production Floor Safety Measures
- Proficiency in CNC Controls and Programming
- Understanding Metallurgical Principles
- Mastery of Machining and Grinding Processes
- Precision Inspection Methods
- Application of Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM Principles
- Effective Workholding Strategies
Benefits also await.
Prepare for diverse career pathways including CNC machinist, machine operator, or lathe/mill operator roles
Attain the confidence and skills needed to excel in your professional endeavors
This program also gives you enough time to study as it lasts for a full year.
You can schedule your classes at your own pace as the course is flexible.
East Mississippi Community College 
The program offered by this college for future machinists is called Precision Manufacturing and Machining Technology,
By attending this program you can earn one of the following:
- A career certificate
- A technical certificate
- An Associate of Applied Science diploma
- The NIMS certification
You have to attend classes for one year for the first certificate.
The technical certificate and the AAS diploma require attendance for 2 years.
The NIMS certification is for everyone attending.
You’ll have to meet some requirements to be accepted into the program:
- ACT Score of 16 in the Composite and Math
- A Silver Certificate on the Workkeys exam
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Mississippi State University | 75 B. S. Hood Rd, Mississippi State, MS 39762, |
| East Mississippi Community College | 1512 Kemper St, Scooba, MS 39358 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Mississippi
You might be curious about potential earnings in the CNC machinist field.
Certainly, factors like location and experience will impact your income.
For instance, the median salary for a CNC machinist in Mississippi is $45,180.
Refer to the table below for locations offering higher median salaries in this profession.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Centreville | $47,210 |
| Liberty | $47,210 |
| Magnolia | $47,210 |
| Olive Branch | $46,760 |
| Abbeville | $46,600 |
| Arkabutla | $46,600 |
| Blue Mountain | $46,600 |
| Como | $46,600 |
| Leakesville | $46,450 |
| Tylertown | $46,350 |
Regional Salary in Mississippi
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula, MS | 320 | $61,590 | $29.61 | $66,170 | $47,560 |
| Hattiesburg, MS | 130 | $52,280 | $25.14 | $66,590 | $38,220 |
| Jackson, MS | 280 | $52,580 | $25.28 | $75,950 | $33,160 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to train as a CNC Machinist in Mississippi?
Certainly, the succinct response is “yes.”
However, without training, landing a job could be difficult.
Training opens doors to potential apprenticeships, offering vital hands-on experience essential for operating CNC machines.
Can I train as a CNC machinist outside of Mississippi?
In short, yes.
Ensure that the program is conducted in person and be prepared to relocate to the state where the university is situated for the duration of your studies.
What kind of position do CNC machinists hold in Mississippi?
This article presents the job of a CNC machinist I which is the entry-level position for this occupation.
As you gain experience you’ll be able to advance to higher levels which are also better paid.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State