As of July 2026,
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators has an AI-exposure score of 57/100
(Elevated exposure) on the AI-Safe Careers index. This is an estimate of task
exposure, not a prediction of job loss.
Score inputs for this role:
This role starts from O*NET 29.1 occupational descriptors and is empirically grounded by Penn/OpenAI GPTs are GPTs study, Anthropic Economic Index (June 26, 2026). BLS labor-market figures are separate context, not score inputs.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
More exposed than 52% of the roles we track. Median pay ~US$50,690. About 13,500 projected openings a year (BLS 2024–34 - growth plus replacement).
Pay & demand figures are US medians (BLS, in USD) - your local figures will differ. Your exposure score applies broadly.
How this role compares to similar Production roles
What this role usually involves
Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
Broad guidance for this preparation level; exact requirements vary by role and employer.
Source: O*NET 29.1 exact occupation - Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators, SOC 51-9161.00. Context describes the role; the AI-exposure score remains a separate task-exposure estimate.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators tasks, by AI exposure
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
- Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
- Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.
- Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
- Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
No durable tasks identified for this role - its real, individually-assessed tasks consistently read as augmentable (60%).
We analyzed all 20 Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators tasks - 8 automatable and 12 augmentable. The full task map - every task with exactly what to do about each - is in your Career Report.
Your report unlocks three concrete artifacts
Every task scored with what to automate, augment, or protect.
Related roles with exposure deltas, salary, demand, and reachability. Lower-exposure options appear only when the data supports them.
A keepable roadmap plus resume and LinkedIn repositioning.
Grounded in O*NET-linked or curated role data, with Penn, Anthropic Economic Index, and AIOE signals where matched. BLS labor-market context is separate - not generic advice.
Adjacent career paths
Relatedness shows how reachable a move may be. A path is labeled lower exposure only when its score is at least 6 points lower; every row shows the measured difference.
Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
Your AI-Safe Career Report
Every task scored with what to do about it; adjacent paths with honest exposure deltas, salary, demand, and reachability; a skill-gap map; a 30/60/90-day roadmap; Agent Reality Check; plus a résumé and LinkedIn rewrite and professional PDF.
Grounded in O*NET-linked or curated role data, with Penn, Anthropic Economic Index, and AIOE signals where matched. BLS labor-market context is separate.
Workers with AI skills earn a roughly 62% wage premium - adapting pays. - PwC Global AI Jobs Barometer, 2026
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