51-9161.00

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or other materials.

High Risk

This role faces substantial AI disruption

More at risk than 87% of occupations we track

Frey & Osborne (2013) estimated 81% probability of automation for this role

paper →

87%

of jobs safer

jobs riskier than this

+3.1%

projected growth

Disruption Vector

Disruption Type

Physical Robots

Physical robotics, autonomous machines, and automated equipment are the main threat to the physical tasks in this occupation.

CNC machines are already computer-controlled, but AI is transforming the role further: generative design AI auto-creates tool paths from 3D models, predictive maintenance AI reduces manual oversight, and computer vision systems detect defects automatically. The operator role is becoming one of machine supervision and exception handling rather than manual programming.

Disrupted byBoston DynamicsAmazon RoboticsTesla Optimus

Salary & Job Outlook

Median Annual Pay

$46,120

US Bureau of Labor Statistics

10-Year Job Growth

+3.1%

As fast as average

Education Required

High school diploma

Job Zone 2 / 5

AI Risk Timeline

7.6

8.3

9.1

10.0

Today

Current AI exposure

5 Years

Near-term outlook

10 Years

Medium-term risk

20 Years

Long-term trajectory

Projection model: Based on current AI capability growth rates. High-risk occupations are projected to see compounding automation pressure, while human-centric roles show slower risk accumulation. These are statistical projections, not guarantees.

Skills Analysis — AI Vulnerability

AI can replicate (0)

AI-resistant (1)

Mixed

Active Listening65%

Speaking60%

Coordination62%

Monitoring58%

Time Management55%

Career Pivot Paths

If you're a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators, consider pivoting toward these lower-risk roles:

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and CosmetologistsFaster than average

Physical Robots·Risk: 1.5/10·-6.1 pts safer

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and SteamfittersFaster than average

Physical Robots·Risk: 2.0/10·-5.6 pts safer

Child, Family, and School Social WorkersFaster than average

Human-Centric·Risk: 1.8/10·-5.8 pts safer

Mental Health CounselorsMuch faster than average

Human-Centric·Risk: 1.5/10·-6.1 pts safer

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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

7.6

/ 10

High Risk

76% automation risk

"Let's just say your LinkedIn is about to get very busy."

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I just checked if I'm cooked as a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators 🤖 AI risk score: 7.6/10 — High Risk "Let's just say your LinkedIn is about to get very busy." Check yours 👇 https://amicooked-five.vercel.app/results/51-9161.00 #AmICooked #AI #FutureOfWork

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COMPUTER NUMERICALLY CONTROLLED TOOL OPERATORS

7.6

/ 10

HIGH RISK

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You're more at risk than a Occupational Therapists (score: 2.0). Maybe it's time to rethink.

This analysis is for informational purposes only and is based on statistical models and academic research. It does not constitute career advice and is not a guarantee of future employment outcomes. AI impact varies significantly by employer, region, and individual circumstances. Learn about our methodology →