Is being a CNC machinist hard?
A CNC machinist does not exist. The following are the positions regarding CNC machine tools.CNC ProgrammerCNC SetterCNC OperatorCNC Programmer - This is the hard part. Usually, a CNC programmer is a qualified or experienced machinist or turner. One has to understand the principals of machining to be able to write a program for machining on a CNC machine tool.CNC Setter - The CNC Setter is the person who would get the program from the programmer and install it on the CNC. Her would then set the machine up and get it ready for operation. The setter also needs a good background in machining or turning.CNC Operator - This is the easiest part of the job and only a good understanding of measuring instruments are necessary.The programmer probably has the hardest part of the job. The setter second and the operator the easiest. Despite having the easiest part of the job, the operator's importance to the operation is significant. He is the first person to identify incorrect dimensions of the machined component. He has to notify the setter or QC inspector if the machined workpiece is out of spec. If he fails to do so, a batch of scrap components could be produced wasting a lot of time and money. Usually, depending on the size, complexity and cost of the machined component, the operator has to take one out of every specified amount to the QC inspector for precise measuring to confirm its conformity to the drawing.In many instances, the programmer is the setter too. In others, the setter is the operator. There are instances where the programmer does the programming, setting, and is the operator of the machine.