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Are you interested in working as a CNC machinist?
This profession is newer than others, but it will offer many career opportunities once you are done with the required training.
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Description
CNC, or Computer Numerical Control, is a term not widely recognized by many.
Operating computer-controlled machines is the primary duty of a CNC machinist.
These machines are adept at accurately cutting a range of materials, from metals to plastics.
Among them are lathes, mills, and grinders, each serving a distinct purpose.
Responsibilities encompass machine setup, program creation, and meticulous adjustment of settings.
Machinists also decipher blueprints, adhering to precise specifications.
Post-inspection, they verify that finished parts meet the required standards.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
Now that you grasp the essence of the CNC machinist role, where should you begin?
Review the prerequisites outlined below:
- Complete high school education
- Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Acquire a degree or certification
- Garner practical experience
- Cultivate essential skills
For further clarification, consult the FAQ section provided below.
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Ohio
Certainly, before considering employment, there are certain preliminary steps to complete.
Let’s examine these steps closely.
First step – Education
Attending and graduating from high school is a crucial step towards success, ensuring you receive a diploma.
Nevertheless, if obtaining a high school diploma proves challenging at present, pursuing a GED is a good option.
Keep in mind that pursuing a degree necessitates enrollment in a post-secondary institution.
For a comprehensive list of schools offering training opportunities, simply delve a little deeper.
Step 2 – Experience
Success in the job field hinges on experience.
Attaining certification or a degree contributes significantly to gaining valuable experience.
Schools are very important in facilitating apprenticeships, where you can learn more about CNC machining.
More often than not, apprenticeships are paid.
This information may prove beneficial if you’re seeking employment while undergoing training.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
The next step you need to take is to get a license from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills.
This particular certification doesn’t ever expire, as mentioned by the NIMS FAQ.
You may be glad to know that there are no exam fees associated with this certification.
The exam is available online, and future machinists can also take this exam as many times as they need.
This certification is helpful in finding a good job.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Once your chosen apprenticeship is completed, it will be time to search for jobs.
You have more than one option here.
You can get help from your training school or choose to search for a job independently.
There are numerous companies needing CNC machinists, so finding one should be easy.
CNC Machinist Training in Ohio
When you are done with your education, you will need to attend some training to get the required experience.
This state provides several training programs for machinists, so this is something worth looking into.
Let’s see where you can get into a training program in Ohio.
Marion Tech Workforce Solutions 
The course covers CNC machining skills such as:
- Workholding
- Math
- Inspection
- Safety
- Metal cutting
- Material
- Quality
- Production Floor Safety
- CNC Controls and Programming
- Metallurgy
- Machining and Grinding Processes
- Inspection Methods
- Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
- Workholding Principles
Benefits:
- Prepare for CNC-related careers
- Gain confidence in your job skills
- Access exclusive virtual events during National Apprenticeship Week.
The tuition for the course is $2,245 which can be paid in monthly installments.
Great Oaks Career Campuses 
This program can be exactly what you are looking for if you need a school with a flexible schedule.
Some of the classes you will take include:
- Machine tool set-up and basic machining skills
- Basic CNC and CAD
- Blueprint reading and interpretation
Among the topics you will learn about are the following:
- Shop safety
- Quality control
- Blueprint reading
- Precision measuring tools
- Benchwork
- Layout work
- Power saws
- Manual mill and lathe setup and operation
- Grinding machine
- Mastercam (CAD/CAM design software)
- CNC programming mill and lathe setup and operation
Keep in mind this school also provides financial aid and allows participants to apply online.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Marion Tech Workforce Solutions | 1467 Mount Vernon Avenue Marion, OH 43302 US |
| Great Oaks Career Campuses | 110 Great Oaks Dr. (at 3254 E. Kemper Road) CincinnatiOH45241 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Ohio
You’ve finished education and training.
Next, get hired.
Learn about CNC machinist salaries in Ohio.
Pay is based on education and experience.
In Ohio, CNC machinists earn about $49,690 yearly.
Check the table for more info.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Lakewood | $50,010 |
| Willoughby | $49,830 |
| Harrisburg | $49,670 |
| West Jefferson | $49,630 |
| Yorkville | $49,600 |
| Addyston | $49,530 |
| Waldo | $49,440 |
| Avon Lake | $49,170 |
| Germantown | $49,090 |
| Franklin | $49,030 |
Regional Salary in Ohio
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron, OH | 970 | $48,170 | $23.16 | $63,890 | $30,380 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | 380 | $49,640 | $23.87 | $69,670 | $29,480 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | 2,710 | $57,120 | $27.46 | $74,630 | $37,550 |
| Cleveland-Elyria, OH | 3,390 | $52,190 | $25.09 | $72,350 | $36,780 |
| Columbus, OH | 1,070 | $52,070 | $25.03 | $70,630 | $37,220 |
| Dayton, OH | 1,120 | $53,450 | $25.7 | $68,200 | $36,050 |
| Lima, OH | 90 | $57,190 | $27.49 | $105,600 | $34,890 |
| Mansfield, OH | 160 | $46,500 | $22.36 | $63,170 | $30,980 |
| Springfield, OH | 160 | $51,290 | $24.66 | $68,020 | $33,300 |
| Toledo, OH | 1,080 | $58,530 | $28.14 | $75,470 | $34,890 |
| Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA | 890 | $56,470 | $27.15 | $77,680 | $35,270 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CNC machinists in high demand in Ohio?
While it’s acknowledged that the demand for CNC machinists in Ohio might not match that of other regions, this shouldn’t deter individuals from pursuing this career.
It’s worth noting that as older machinists retire, it opens up opportunities for new talent.
Hence, despite the current demand scenario, there exists significant potential for growth and progress within the CNC machining industry in Ohio.
Is there a possibility of getting a higher paying position in this field in Ohio?
Indeed, there are multiple tiers of CNC machinists.
Each level typically commands a higher salary than the preceding one, even at the minimum wage level.
These insights are corroborated by data available on salary.com.
Do I have to train as a CNC Machinist in Ohio?
In brief, yes.
Securing employment in the CNC machining industry without training can be challenging.
However, undergoing training opens doors to potential apprenticeships, providing essential hands-on experience vital for operating CNC machines effectively.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State