How to become a CNC machinist
You can get into this job through a college course or an apprenticeship.
College
You could do a college course to learn some of the practical engineering skills you'll need.
Courses include:
- Level 1 Certificate in Engineering and Manufacturing
- Level 1 Certificate in Performing Engineering Operations
- Level 2 Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or fewer GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent, for a level 1 course
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do an Engineering Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship or Machining Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
If you're working in the furniture manufacturing industry, you could do a Furniture CNC Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
More information
You can find out more about engineering careers from Tomorrow's Engineers.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship