As of July 2026, Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers has an AI-exposure score of 70/100 (High 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.

AI Exposure Score for

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

70/100
High exposure
LowModerateElevatedHighVery High

More exposed than 89% of the roles we track. Median pay ~US$68,120. About 3,100 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.

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Data sources, not endorsements: O*NET and curated role data; empirical AI signals where matched; BLS employment, pay, and demand as separate context.Methodology Data sources
Role snapshot

What this role usually involves

O*NET 29.1 exact occupation

Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.

Common titles
CAD CAM Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Computer-Aided Manufacturing Programmer)Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist)Computer Numerical Control Programmer (CNC Programmer)Programmer
O*NET job-zone preparation
Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparation Needed Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

Broad guidance for this preparation level; exact requirements vary by role and employer.

Skills and knowledge
ProgrammingMonitoringActive LearningCritical ThinkingMathematicsReading Comprehension
Tools and technology
Autodesk AutoCADDassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareExtensible markup language XMLMicrosoft Outlook
Work context
Face-to-face discussionsDecision latitudeIndoor controlled settingFrequent contact with othersEmail use

Source: O*NET 29.1 exact occupation - Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers, SOC 51-9162.00. Context describes the role; the AI-exposure score remains a separate task-exposure estimate.

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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers tasks, by AI exposure

Automatable
  • Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
  • Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.
  • Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.
9 more automatable tasks locked in the report.
Augmentable
  • Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.
  • Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
1 more augmentable task locked in the report.
Durable

No durable tasks identified for this role - its real, individually-assessed tasks consistently read as automatable (80%).

We analyzed all 15 Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers tasks - 12 automatable and 3 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

Full task map

Every task scored with what to automate, augment, or protect.

Adjacent path comparison

Related roles with exposure deltas, salary, demand, and reachability. Lower-exposure options appear only when the data supports them.

30/60/90 plan + PDF

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.

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
80% skills overlap; 13 points lower - lower exposure; Elevated band; ~US$50,690
View path
57
7 more adjacent paths with exposure deltas, salary, demand, and reachability in your Career Report.
Agent Reality Check (on-site workflow preview)

Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.

Check what deployed AI agents can attempt on tasks like this using dated capability evidence. You review the real task before any analysis runs.
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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.

AI was the most-cited reason for U.S. layoffs through mid-2026 - the workers who adapt earliest fare best. - Challenger, Gray & Christmas, 2026The upside: Workers with AI skills earn a roughly 62% wage premium - adapting pays. - PwC Global AI Jobs Barometer, 2026

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Important: This is an estimate of AI exposure, not a prediction that your job will disappear. It is designed to help you understand how your role may change and improve your career resilience.