Looking for a steady job with hands-on work, good pay, and room to grow? A career in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) might be worth a serious look. It’s not for everyone — but if you like tech, precision, and the smell of freshly cut metal, you’re in for a rewarding ride.
What does a CNC career actually involve?
CNC machinists and operators work with automated tools programmed to cut, shape, or finish materials like metal and plastic. Think of it like working with industrial robots — except these machines don’t dance or talk back. They follow code.
Here’s the typical toolkit:
- CAD/CAM software skills: To read and sometimes create the programs machines run on.
- Mechanical aptitude: To adjust, inspect, and fine-tune machinery.
- Problem-solving: Machines hiccup. You’ll need to know how and why — fast.
- Attention to detail: Millimetres matter. Often microns.
It’s not a sit-and-scroll job. It’s active, exacting, and sometimes loud. But for many tradies and tech-minded folks, that’s the whole point.
Is there actually demand for CNC machinists in Australia?
Short answer: yes. And not just in heavy industrial suburbs. From boutique aerospace shops in Brisbane to precision prototyping in regional Victoria, skilled machinists are getting harder to find.
Here’s what’s fuelling demand:
- Onshoring of manufacturing: More Aussie companies are bringing production back home.
- Defence, aerospace, and medical sectors: These industries rely heavily on high-tolerance machining.
- Ageing workforce: A good chunk of current machinists are hitting retirement age.
In 2023, Jobs and Skills Australia forecast a moderate-to-strong growth trend for CNC-related roles over the next five years. Combine that with rising automation and you’re looking at a skill set that straddles both the old-school workshop and the future of smart manufacturing.
How much can you earn in CNC machining?
Here’s the part most folks lean in for.
While pay varies by state, sector, and experience, CNC machinists in Australia generally fall into these ranges:
| Level | Average Weekly Pay (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Operator | $900 – $1,200 |
| Experienced Machinist | $1,300 – $1,600 |
| CNC Programmer | $1,700 – $2,200+ |
Some specialist programmers or toolmakers in defence or aerospace can crack the six-figure mark annually — particularly if they’re working shift rotations.
And if you’re curious about how this compares globally or want a deeper breakdown, this article gives a solid snapshot of CNC operator pay scales across markets.
Is CNC a future-proof skill?
Let’s be real: manufacturing isn’t what it used to be. But CNC sits at the sweet spot where traditional trades meet tech evolution. Here’s why it’s likely to stick around:
- Automation doesn’t eliminate CNC — it enhances it: More robots need more programmers and operators.
- 3D printing complements, not replaces, CNC: Some materials and tolerances still demand subtractive methods.
- Reskilling is faster than you think: TAFE and short certs can get you operational in 6–12 months.
And here’s a practical example: a mate of mine, Mark, was a diesel mechanic for 14 years. He took a 9-month CNC course after a work injury kept him out of the pit. Two years in, he’s programming five-axis mills in a medical device plant — loving the clean environment and saying goodbye to busted knuckles.
Who thrives in CNC — and who doesn’t?
Not every job suits every bloke or sheila. CNC has its quirks.
Good fit if you:
- Enjoy detail-oriented, structured tasks
- Like a mix of hands-on and computer-based work
- Prefer a quiet-ish job with steady hours
- Want a trade that isn’t reliant on weather or site travel
Tougher fit if you:
- Can’t sit still or hate repetitive tasks
- Get frustrated with fussy tech
- Need high levels of interpersonal interaction
Think of it as halfway between engineering and manufacturing — ideal for introverts with a perfectionist streak.
How do you get started in CNC machining?
You don’t need a four-year degree. Here’s a common entry path:
- Cert III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (TAFE or RTO)
- Apprenticeship (4 years, often employer-sponsored)
- On-the-job training with specific machines and software
Many companies offer traineeships or even upskill from within. And because CNC overlaps with other trades — toolmaking, fitting, turning — you’re not locked in if your interests shift down the track.
For adult learners or career changers, short intensives and job-ready programs can provide a fast start, especially in cities like Melbourne or Adelaide where manufacturing hubs are keen on new blood.
What are the downsides of a CNC career?
No gig’s perfect. Here’s the less-glossy stuff:
- Monotony: Some jobs involve running the same part, day in, day out.
- Machine downtime stress: If a $500k mill crashes, all eyes are on you.
- Standing and noise: You’ll need good boots and maybe earplugs.
But compared to high-risk or backbreaking trades, CNC offers stability without brutal wear and tear. And if you lean into programming, you may find yourself spending more time in front of a workstation than a machine bed.
FAQs
Is CNC machining hard to learn?
Not if you’re mechanically minded. The basics are straightforward — but mastering it takes time and repetition, like any trade.
Can you freelance or start your own CNC shop?
Yes, but setup costs are steep. A basic CNC mill starts at $10k–$20k, and more advanced gear can climb past $100k. Many start with jobbing work or subcontracting.
Is CNC still relevant with all the new tech around?
Absolutely. In fact, many advanced manufacturing roles depend on CNC — especially in medical implants, aerospace parts, and motorsport engineering. It’s a tech-savvy trade, not a dying one.
So, is a CNC career worth it? If you’re after secure work with a blend of hands-on skill and digital smarts, it’s more than worth considering. It’s one of those trades where showing up, learning your craft, and staying sharp can lead to real rewards.
And if you’re curious about what those rewards look like in actual numbers, this breakdown of CNC Machining lays it out clearly — wages, roles, and where the money’s at.
For a deeper dive into machining’s future, the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre also offers excellent resources on where the industry is heading.