CNC Programmer
Also known as: CAM Programmer · CNC Programming Engineer · CNC Process Engineer
Writes and proves CNC machine programs that turn engineering drawings into accurately machined parts.
What you’d do
A CNC programmer creates the programs that run computer-controlled lathes and machining centres, turning engineering drawings into finished parts. Machine shops, auto-component makers, tool rooms and aerospace and die-mould suppliers hire for this work. A typical day involves reading drawings, preparing programs in CAM software, setting up tools and proving out first parts with operators.
- Read part drawings and tolerances
- Write CNC programs using CAM or G-code
- Select tools, fixtures and cutting parameters
- Prove out programs and fix machining issues
How you get in
Freshers often start as trainee programmers or setters in machine shops and tool rooms, learning on real machines. Hands-on CAM and CNC training from a tool room or training centre is commonly valued.
Salary in India
Fresher salary over the years
middle of the 0–1 yr range, ₹ lakh a year
Fewer than two years of fresher data so far — the trend shows once there are two.
Skills you’ll use
From our guide · a curated list is coming
- Reading engineering drawings and GD&T
- CAM software and G-code
- Tool and cutting-parameter selection
- Measuring instruments and inspection
- Shop-floor troubleshooting
About this field · for freshers
Job openings by year
Is demand growing?
Not added yet.
Competition3
How many graduates enter each year?
B.Tech / B.E. (all branches) graduates in 2023-24 at institutions that reported to AISHE — everyone finishing that degree, not only those entering this role.
Who hires
IT firms, banks, government, startups?
Not added yet.
Where the jobs are
Which cities?
Not added yet.
Women in the field3
Is it diverse?
Share of women among B.Tech / B.E. (all branches) graduates in 2023-24 — the entry degree, not people already working in this role.
At a glance
- Common next roles: senior programmer, process engineer, tool-room or production in-charge.
- Hands-on shop-floor work, often in shifts.
- Skills carry across auto, aerospace and die-mould work.
Stay safe
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