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Are you considering a career as a CNC machinist in Michigan?
If so, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the job requirements.
Despite being a relatively new profession, CNC machining remains in high demand and popularity.
Article Table of Contents
CNC Machinist Job Description
As promised, let me elaborate on what CNC stands for – Computer Numerical Control.
Popular Programs
A CNC machinist typically operates a range of computer-controlled machines designed for cutting tough materials like metal or plastic.
Among the machines utilizing this technology are:
- Lathes,
- Mills,
- Grinders
Certainly, you’ll have daily tasks to fulfill.
These may include:
- Configuring machinery.
- Crafting and verifying programs.
- Adjusting operations as necessary.
- Interpreting schematics and plans to understand component specifications.
- Ensuring the produced parts meet specifications.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
Key requirements for a CNC Machinist role include:
- High school diploma completion.
- Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Obtaining a relevant degree or certification.
- Accumulating practical experience.
- Possessing necessary skill sets.
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Michigan
To meet most of the requirements of possible employers, you must follow the next steps.
Step 1: Education
Commencing your journey starts with obtaining a high school diploma.
Alternatively, securing a GED is a viable option.
However, the educational journey doesn’t conclude there.
Enrolling in a post-secondary institution becomes essential.
You’ll need to attain either a certification or a degree within the relevant field.
I’ll gladly recommend a selection of institutions worthy of your consideration for enrollment.
Step 2 – Experience
Although the initial educational phase is crucial, gaining practical experience is paramount for obtaining certifications or degrees.
Furthermore, programs facilitating such qualifications often assist in securing apprenticeships.
During apprenticeships, you’ll collaborate with seasoned CNC machinists, gaining invaluable insights into the job.
It’s worth noting that apprenticeships typically provide compensation for the valuable learning experience they offer.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
The certification is offered by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
This certification remains valid indefinitely, allowing you to utilize it for as long as necessary.
Crucially, the exam required for certification is free of charge.
Additionally, you can retake the exam multiple times until successful passage.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Upon finishing your apprenticeship program, you’re likely eager to begin your job search.
You might need to seek employment independently.
Yet, there’s a possibility of receiving job placement assistance from the institution where you trained, particularly if they facilitated your apprenticeship opportunity.
CNC Machinist Training in Michigan
To gain training in this state, consider exploring the following schools for a clearer understanding:
Michigan Career & Technical Institute 
The Michigan Career and Technical Institute offers with the help of the Michigan government an adult training program for future CNC machinists.
The program has 2 training paths, welding and CNC machinist.
To be accepted in the machinist program you must meet most of the U.S. Department of Labor occupational profile.
Students can participate in up to 4 terms if they have the right skills and interests.
Epic CNC Training Academy 
Here you have a program that has a duration of only 8 weeks.
Classes start at 7 am and finish at 3:30 pm, and are organized from Monday to Friday.
You’ll have to check the academy’s website to see when a new training session begins.
This is because you have to enroll at least 2 weeks before the term begins.
Enrolling requires the following:
- Age over 18
- An application
- A resume
- Pass the State of Michigan Career Readiness Assessments (WorkKeys)
- The minimum accepted score for this test is 4
The documents can be sent by mail or submitted online.
Central Michigan University 
Here you have a program that lasts for up to 12 months.
The number of hours you’ll have to attend is 205.
Enrollment is open at all times and you can take your time to study within a year.
This program is offered online and when you finish it you’ll receive a certificate of completion.
You must pay $1,695 for this course, but you can use Affirm to pay it in monthly installments.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Michigan Career & Technical Institute | 11611 W Pine Lake Rd, Plainwell, MI 49080, |
| Epic CNC Training Academy | 201 Industrial Way Fenton, MI 48430 |
| Central Michigan University | 1200 S Franklin St, Mt Pleasant, MI 48859, |
These institutions provide comprehensive training programs tailored to the needs of aspiring CNC machinists.
CNC Machinist Salary in Michigan
You’re likely curious about potential earnings.
Your income will be impacted by variables like your location and experience.
The median salary for a CNC machinist in this state is $50,250.
Refer to the table below for locations boasting higher median salaries for this occupation.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Ypsilanti | $52,280 |
| Brighton | $52,040 |
| Wayne | $51,560 |
| Somerset | $51,240 |
| Addison | $51,190 |
| Berkley | $51,170 |
| Taylor | $51,150 |
| Avoca | $50,820 |
| Tecumseh | $50,710 |
| Bellevue | $50,160 |
Regional Salary in Michigan
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ann Arbor, MI | 500 | $50,950 | $24.5 | $65,520 | $36,410 |
| Battle Creek, MI | 370 | $43,350 | $20.84 | $56,280 | $32,330 |
| Bay City, MI | 190 | $47,480 | $22.83 | $63,350 | $30,420 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | 9,930 | $49,760 | $23.92 | $66,710 | $34,580 |
| Flint, MI | 410 | $51,940 | $24.97 | $71,380 | $32,190 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI | 3,430 | $46,910 | $22.55 | $62,820 | $32,200 |
| Jackson, MI | 670 | $46,860 | $22.53 | $62,120 | $31,310 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | 790 | $45,320 | $21.79 | $60,430 | $31,140 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | 850 | $49,190 | $23.65 | $66,660 | $32,800 |
| Midland, MI | 110 | $42,630 | $20.49 | $55,630 | $30,530 |
| Monroe, MI | 200 | $52,730 | $25.35 | $66,620 | $35,920 |
| Muskegon, MI | 610 | $42,040 | $20.21 | $56,150 | $30,940 |
| Niles-Benton Harbor, MI | 620 | $44,340 | $21.32 | $60,350 | $31,680 |
| Saginaw, MI | 610 | $50,300 | $24.18 | $62,930 | $34,320 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good skills to have as a CNC machinist in Michigan?
Every CNC machinist is tasked with honing a set of essential skills:
- Attention to detail
- Mathematical proficiency
- Inspection expertise
- Prioritization of safety measures
- Mastery of metal and plastic cutting techniques
- Understanding of diverse materials
- Adherence to work quality standards
- Proficiency in grinding techniques
Can I enroll in an online training program for CNC machinists in Michigan?
Technically, sorry for the pun, you can.
However, make sure you can earn a diploma or a certificate at the end of the program.
Also, remember you need practical experience as well.
Which area of study should I focus on to become a CNC machinist in Michigan?
Mathematics undoubtedly plays a crucial role in the technical domain, especially for CNC machinists.
A strong grasp of basic mathematical operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—is vital.
Additionally, proficiency in handling fractions, percentages, and decimals is indispensable for executing tasks effectively with a CNC machine.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State