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Maybe CNC machinists are new to you.
Let’s dive into this job.
Before starting as a machinist, you should first understand it better.
We are here to help you succeed.
Article Table of Contents
Popular Programs
Take a look at the article below for detailed info on CNC machinists in Texas!
CNC Machinist Job Description
So now that you have chosen to pursue this profession, let’s see more about CNC.
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, using computer-operated machinery.
CNC machinists use these devices to cut tough materials like glass or metal precisely.
They work with lathes, mills, or grinders for this purpose.
Daily tasks involve machine setup, program development, and adjusting settings.
They interpret blueprints and follow guidelines.
Also, ensuring the produced parts meet standards is crucial.
CNC Machinist Job Requirements
Wondering how to become a machinist in Texas?
Prerequisites include:
- High school diploma required.
- Keep a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Get a degree or certification.
- Gain practical experience.
- Develop essential skills.
For further details, check out the FAQ section.
Becoming a CNC Machinist in Texas
Remember, there are steps before landing a job.
They’ll be outlined below.
First step – Education
Firstly, aim to earn a high school diploma.
If you can’t obtain one now, consider getting a GED.
For a degree, attend a post-secondary school first.
Keep reading to find schools offering relevant training.
Step 2 – Experience
To start working, gather experience first.
Get a license to make it happen.
Enroll in an institution for apprenticeship opportunities.
Develop your CNC machining skills through this.
Apprenticeships often pay and provide learning from experienced CNC machinists.
This route ensures a quicker job placement.
Step 3 – Earn The NIMS Certification
Obtaining a NIMS certification boosts your career.
It never expires, according to NIMS FAQ.
The test is free, which is advantageous.
Accessible online, participants can take it multiple times.
This license enhances career prospects.
Step 4 – Apply for a Job
Wondering how to land a job post-apprenticeship?
Your training institution may offer assistance.
Alternatively, you can search independently.
CNC machinists are in demand in Texas.
Either way, you’ll find a job quickly.
CNC Machinist Training in Texas
If you want to get trained, you need to enroll in a program.
In Texas, you can attend one of the institutions listed below.
Lincoln Technical Institute
The CNC Machining and Manufacturing Technology program trains students for entry-level jobs.
Students learn to operate and set up complex manufacturing machines.
They learn about turning, milling, and multi-axis machining.
Students can earn credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
These credentials cover areas like:
- Materials,
- Measurement,
- Safety,
- Job Planning,
- CNC Operations.
Students must complete out-of-class assignments for each course.
You will be able to choose between day and evening programs, so there is something for everyone.
The semester credit hours total 35, with 900 theory hours.
The program lasts for about 40 weeks in total, holidays included.
Texas State Technical College 
Through this technical college, you can earn a certificate or an associate’s degree.
6 campuses offer this Precision Machining Technology program:
- East Williamson County
- Fort Bend County
- Harlingen
- Marshall
- North Texas
- Waco
Classes can be attended:
- In-person
- Online
- Hybrid
- In the day-time
- At night
For this course, expect to pay between $5,800 and $13,920.
The lower tuition is for the certificate program.
This program has a duration of 8 months while the other one lasts for 18 months.
The First-Year Seminar course, TSTC 1102 Professional Skills, is recommended for all students who didn’t accumulate 24 credits beforehand.
Mt Training Center 
This school provides a program that costs $14,950.00.
The fee includes both tuition and registration.
The course’s day classes run from Monday to Saturday.
They begin at 7:30 am and end at 2:45 pm, lasting 31 weeks.
Evening classes are from Monday to Friday, starting at 4:00 pm and ending at 9:00 pm, spanning 43 weeks.
The CNC Machinist program includes 1070 hours of instruction, split into 590 hours of classroom training and 480 hours of lab training.
Upon finishing the program, students receive a certificate of completion.
Enrollment starts every Monday of each month.
Upon graduation, students must demonstrate proficiency in setting up and operating CNC mill and lathe machinery.
Additionally, they should be capable of executing a final examination utilizing G, S, M, and F codes.
Furthermore, students must produce manufactured pieces using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Lincoln Technical Institute | 2915 Alouette Dr, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, |
| MT Training Center | 1801 S. Great Southwest Pkwy Grand Prairie, TX 75051 |
| Texas State Technical College | 1600 Innovation Blvd (CR 108) Hutto, TX 78634 |
| Texas State Technical College | 26706 Southwest Freeway Rosenberg, TX 77471 |
| Texas State Technical College | 1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, TX 78550 |
| Texas State Technical College | 2650 East End Blvd., South Marshall, TX 75672 |
| Texas State Technical College | 119 N Lowrance Rd, Red Oak, TX 75154, |
| Texas State Technical College | 3801 Campus Drive Waco, TX 76705 |
CNC Machinist Salary in Texas
Salary influences job decisions greatly.
In Texas, CNC machinists earn a median of $49,800 annually.
Earnings depend on location, education, and experience.
Check the table for state-specific salary details!
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Galveston | $51,600 |
| Hitchcock | $51,570 |
| Houston | $51,550 |
| Alief | $51,520 |
| Stafford | $51,470 |
| Santa Fe | $51,410 |
| Pasadena | $51,360 |
| Channelview | $51,340 |
| Spring | $51,250 |
| Cypress | $51,231 |
Regional Salary in Texas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abilene, TX | 60 | $49,030 | $23.57 | $77,530 | $30,550 |
| Amarillo, TX | 90 | $44,420 | $21.36 | $58,560 | $31,190 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | 880 | $50,820 | $24.43 | $71,700 | $32,740 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | 550 | $59,380 | $28.55 | $93,190 | $35,890 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | 120 | $42,000 | $20.19 | $58,690 | $28,370 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | 70 | $48,790 | $23.46 | $63,340 | $33,760 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | 390 | $63,690 | $30.62 | $90,960 | $39,330 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | 4,360 | $54,780 | $26.34 | $78,460 | $35,660 |
| El Paso, TX | 320 | $42,060 | $20.22 | $59,040 | $28,850 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 5,970 | $55,520 | $26.69 | $79,470 | $37,710 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | 170 | $39,000 | $18.75 | $56,670 | $25,250 |
| Longview, TX | 330 | $44,840 | $21.56 | $60,150 | $30,950 |
| Lubbock, TX | 130 | $48,650 | $23.39 | $69,360 | $32,820 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | 100 | $38,710 | $18.61 | $59,350 | $20,420 |
| Midland, TX | 200 | $54,130 | $26.03 | $68,620 | $38,430 |
| Odessa, TX | 320 | $54,740 | $26.32 | $79,280 | $37,460 |
| San Angelo, TX | 30 | $46,330 | $22.27 | $66,150 | $35,870 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | 600 | $52,610 | $25.3 | $75,210 | $33,040 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | 80 | $48,770 | $23.45 | $61,880 | $33,970 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | 130 | $43,620 | $20.97 | $60,010 | $31,950 |
| Tyler, TX | 70 | $48,320 | $23.23 | $63,370 | $31,400 |
| Victoria, TX | 80 | $47,750 | $22.96 | $62,740 | $32,340 |
| Waco, TX | 130 | $47,280 | $22.73 | $68,790 | $29,000 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | 170 | $46,620 | $22.41 | $68,540 | $35,260 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to continue my education as a CNC machinist in Texas?
Staying current is absolutely crucial.
The industry is constantly evolving, demanding ongoing awareness of the latest practices and advancements.
What are some skills I need to work as a CNC machinist in Texas?
Here are some of the indispensable skills necessary for this role:
- Attention to detail
- Proficiency in reading blueprints
- Ability to follow written instructions
- Strong work ethic
- Proficient problem-solving abilities
Is online or hybrid learning for CNC machinists available in Texas?
As seen in this article, this is indeed possible.
You’ll have to attend lab classes for hands-on learning.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Machinist
CNC Machinist by State