by 
If you’re curious about a career as a CNC machinist but are unfamiliar with the role and its requirements, you’re in the right place!
From understanding the basics of CNC machining to acquiring the necessary education and practical experience, I’ll guide you through the process step by step.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what it takes to become a successful CNC machinist and how to kickstart your career in this field.
Let’s dive in!
Article Table of Contents
Popular Programs
CNC Machinist Job Description
Understanding the meaning of CNC is indeed the first step.
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, which refers to the automation of machine tools through computer programming.
CNC machinists operate a range of equipment, including lathes, mills, and grinders to cut and shape various materials with high precision, such as metals and plastics.
They perform tasks like machine setup, program development, and adjustment of settings.
Additionally, CNC machinists interpret blueprints and follow guidelines to ensure that the finished parts meet quality standards.
It’s a role that requires attention to detail, technical expertise, and a thorough understanding of machining processes.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
To embark on a career as a CNC machinist in Tennessee, it’s essential to adhere to specific guidelines and requirements:
- High School Diploma
- Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or above
- Degree or Certification
- Practical Experience
- Develop Crucial Skills
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Tennessee
Securing a job, like any other profession, demands specific steps.
Discovering these steps is easy: just read the information below.
First step – Education
The first step is to complete your high school education and obtain a diploma.
This serves as the foundational qualification for further education and training in the field.
Pursue a degree or certification program related to CNC machining.
This could involve enrolling in a technical school, community college, or vocational training program offering courses in machining or CNC technology.
Cultivate essential skills such as attention to detail, mathematical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with computer technology.
These skills are fundamental for success in the CNC machining profession.
Step 2 – Experience
Gain practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in machining workshops or manufacturing facilities.
Hands-on exposure is invaluable for mastering the skills required of a CNC machinist.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
Initially, you must obtain NIMS certification.
This credential remains valid indefinitely, as stated in the NIMS FAQ.
The examination is complimentary, a convenient perk.
It’s accessible online and offers the flexibility of retaking it if necessary.
Earning this certification enhances job prospects significantly.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you’ll be poised to embark on your job search journey.
You have several avenues to explore, including seeking assistance from your training institution.
Alternatively, you can opt for an independent job search.
Fortunately, numerous companies in Tennessee are actively seeking to fill machinist positions.
CNC Machinist Training in Tennessee
Following the completion of your education, pursuing training becomes paramount.
Thankfully, numerous schools across the state offer CNC machinist programs.
Take the time to explore these options to find the program that best suits your needs.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of available programs.
Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology 
The Machine Tool Operations program offered by this college is available at two locations.
You can see in the table below which campuses I’m talking about.
You’ll have to attend classes full-time, for 16 months.
This duration means you’d attend 1,728 hours of education.
All classes take place during the day.
At the end of the program, you’ll be eligible to earn a diploma or a certificate.
For the course you’ll have to pay $5,492 and for the books $598.50.
Chattanooga State Community College 
The program offered here is simply called Computer Numeric Control (CNC).
This is a certificate type of course that must be attended full-time.
There are 3 semesters for which you can enroll:
- Fall
- Spring
- Summer
The fall and spring semesters have a duration of 450 hours, while the spring one only has 390 hours.
Students must buy their own sets of tools that are professional grade.
Additionally, students must have prior machine tool experience.
The semesters that last for 450 hours have the following costs that increase every fall:
- Tuition per semester – $1,383
- Tools – about $225
- Books – about $100
There are some exams that also need to be paid for, but separately.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology | 100 White Bridge Pike Nashville, TN 37209 |
| Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology | 1100 Liberty Street Knoxville, TN 37919 |
| 4501 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406, | 4501 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406, |
CNC Machinist Salary in Tennessee
Consider the crucial aspect of salary when contemplating a career as a CNC machinist.
In Tennessee, the median annual pay for CNC machinists stands at $46,580.
Your earnings may vary depending on factors such as your location, level of experience, and educational background.
For a comprehensive breakdown of salaries in the state, refer to the table provided below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Elora | $48,100 |
| Belvidere | $48,050 |
| Huntland | $48,050 |
| Dellrose | $48,050 |
| Belfast | $48,050 |
| Estill Springs | $47,660 |
| Elkton | $47,450 |
| Brentwood | $47,190 |
| La Vergne | $47,070 |
| Alamo | $46,600 |
Regional Salary in Tennessee
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga, TN-GA | 680 | $47,240 | $22.71 | $62,120 | $30,970 |
| Clarksville, TN-KY | 130 | $47,630 | $22.9 | $59,390 | $33,930 |
| Cleveland, TN | 110 | $46,890 | $22.54 | $63,360 | $37,220 |
| Jackson, TN | 520 | $44,230 | $21.26 | $52,050 | $29,680 |
| Johnson City, TN | 150 | $42,380 | $20.37 | $57,590 | $31,200 |
| Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol, TN-VA | 340 | $50,800 | $24.42 | $78,160 | $33,010 |
| Knoxville, TN | 1,320 | $53,510 | $25.73 | $95,070 | $36,300 |
| Memphis, TN-MS-AR | 2,030 | $51,480 | $24.75 | $64,610 | $34,530 |
| Morristown, TN | 400 | $43,730 | $21.02 | $51,040 | $28,740 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN | 1,560 | $47,380 | $22.78 | $62,470 | $34,360 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are salaries good for CNC machinists in Tennessee?
The salary for a CNC machinist in Tennessee is not as high as in other states.
Keep in mind that through this article you learned what you need to do to become an entry-level machinist.
You have many possibilities of advancement so you’ll be able to earn more.
Do I have to train as a CNC Machinist in Tennessee?
As seen in the article you just read, the simple response is “yes.”
Yet, lacking training could hinder job prospects.
Training opens avenues to apprenticeships, offering crucial hands-on experience vital for CNC machine operation.
What are the essential skills for working as a CNC machinist in Tennessee?
CNC machinists need to master:
- Holding workpieces securely.
- Understanding math.
- Inspecting components.
- Prioritizing safety.
- Cutting metal effectively.
- Recognizing different materials.
- Ensuring work quality.
- Proficiency in grinding.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State