How to Become a CNC Machinist in the UK
CNC machinists set up and run computer numerically controlled milling machines, lathes and machining centres that cut precision parts from metal and plastic. You read engineering drawings, load programs, set tools and work offsets, run first-off parts, then measure them with micrometers, gauges or a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) to check they are within tolerance. Parts might be for aerospace, motorsport, medical devices, defence or general engineering.
Most machinists train through an engineering apprenticeship. Adults can also start as machine operators and learn setting and programming on the job.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £24,000 - £30,000
- Mid-career salary
- £32,000 - £45,000
- Senior salary
- £50,000 - £65,000
- Work environment
- Workshop / factory
- Time to entry
- 2 - 4 years (apprenticeship)
- Degree required
- Not required - apprenticeship route
- Category
- Skilled Trades
Compare pay across careers in the UK salaries by career report. Also in: No-degree careers.
What a CNC Machinist does
Operate computer-controlled machines to cut precision parts from metal and plastic.
- CNC Milling - Run multi-axis mills for aerospace and motorsport parts.
- CNC Turning - Lathe work for high-precision components.
- 5-Axis Machining - Complex parts on 5-axis machines.
- CNC Programming - Write CAM programmes for production.
How to become a CNC machinist in the UK
The usual route is a Level 3 engineering apprenticeship with a machining focus, such as the Machining Technician apprenticeship, with a manufacturer or subcontract machine shop. It typically takes three to four years and combines shop-floor work with college study. Employers usually ask for GCSEs in maths and English. Adults without an apprenticeship often start as CNC operators, loading parts and running proven programs, then learn to set machines and edit G-code. Later, CAM software skills and a qualification such as an HNC in mechanical engineering let you move into programming, toolmaking or production engineering.
- Get GCSE maths at grade 4 or above, or work towards it, because machining involves constant measurement, trigonometry and working to tight tolerances.
- Apply for engineering apprenticeships with a machining focus at manufacturers and subcontract machine shops, which in England are listed on the government's Find an apprenticeship service.
- Learn to read engineering drawings, including geometric tolerancing symbols, and practise using micrometers, verniers and height gauges accurately.
- If you are an adult career changer, apply for CNC operator or machine operator jobs, then ask to be trained in setting and first-off inspection.
- Learn common controls such as Fanuc, Heidenhain, Siemens or Haas, plus basic G-code and M-code, so you can edit and prove programs safely.
- Pick up CAM software such as Fusion 360, Mastercam or Edgecam to move from setter-operator to programmer, where pay is usually higher.
- Consider an HNC in mechanical or manufacturing engineering if you want to progress into programming, production engineering or quality roles.
| Route | How long | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 3 machining or engineering apprenticeship | 3-4 years | Paid by the employer | School leavers and new starters |
| CNC operator, then setter | 1-3 years | Paid while you learn | Adults moving from other factory work |
| College engineering course, then job | 1-2 years | Free for under-19s; adult loans available | People who want to train before applying |
How long it takes
An apprenticeship takes around three to four years, and most machinists need two to four years to become fully competent setters. Adults can start as operators within weeks and build up from there.
CNC Machinist salary in the UK
CNC machinists usually start on around £24,000 to £30,000. Experienced setter-operators and machinists earn roughly £32,000 to £45,000, and CNC programmers, five-axis specialists and workshop leads can earn £50,000 to £65,000. Shift allowances and overtime make a big difference, as many machine shops run double days, nights or weekend shifts. Aerospace, motorsport, defence and medical work tends to pay better than general engineering, and pay also varies by region.
Key skills
- G-code
- Reading drawings
- Metrology
- CAD/CAM basics
- Attention to detail
CNC Machinist FAQs
How do I become a CNC machinist in the UK?
Most people complete a Level 3 engineering apprenticeship with a machining focus. Adults often start as CNC operators running proven programs, then learn to set machines, read drawings, measure parts and edit G-code, before moving into programming.
Do I need qualifications to be a CNC machinist?
Not a degree. Employers usually want GCSE maths and English for apprenticeships. Experienced machinists are hired on skills: reading drawings, setting tools and offsets, inspecting parts and knowing common controls. An HNC helps if you want to move into programming or engineering.
How much does a CNC machinist earn?
Starting pay is typically £24,000 to £30,000. Experienced machinists earn around £32,000 to £45,000, and programmers or specialist five-axis machinists can earn £50,000 to £65,000. Shift allowances and overtime can add significantly.
What is the difference between a CNC operator, setter and programmer?
An operator loads material and runs proven programs. A setter prepares the machine, sets tools and offsets, and checks first-off parts. A programmer writes the programs, often using CAM software. Most machinists progress through these stages, with pay rising at each step.
Is CNC Machinist right for you?
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