Top 11 CNC Machine Operator Certifications

Certifications for a CNC machine operator are important in the job market because they demonstrate the operator’s knowledge and experience with CNC machines. Certifications give employers assurance that the potential employee has the necessary skills to perform the job safely and efficiently. Additionally, certifications can help operators stand out from other applicants and may open up better opportunities for advancement or higher wages. Furthermore, some employers may require certifications as part of their hiring process, so having them can make it easier to find employment.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for CNC Machine Operators and explain how earning them can help advance their career.

What are CNC Machine Operator Certifications?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Machine Operator Certification is a certification program that provides training and instruction in the use of CNC machines, which are computer-controlled tools used to produce precision parts and components. This type of certification helps to ensure that operators have the necessary skills to safely and effectively operate these machines.

The certification process typically includes hands-on instruction in the operation of CNC machines, as well as classroom instruction on safety procedures, machine maintenance, and troubleshooting. Additionally, it covers topics such as programming languages, tool selection, drawing interpretation, material selection, quality control measures and post-processing operations. Most programs also offer additional courses in advanced programming techniques and other specialized topics related to CNC machining.

Having a CNC Machine Operator Certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, having an employee with this certification demonstrates a commitment to safety and quality assurance in their manufacturing processes. It also decreases the time spent on training new employees since they will already have the basic knowledge needed to operate the machines properly.

For employees, having a CNC Machine Operator Certification can open up more job opportunities since many employers prefer candidates who possess this credential. It can also provide them with a competitive edge when it comes to pay since those with this certification may be eligible for higher wages or better benefits than those without it. Furthermore, it can be used as proof of expertise when seeking promotions or lateral transfers within an organization.

Pro Tip: When looking for a CNC Machine Operator Certification, make sure to research the certifying body's reputation and the quality of their program. Also, be sure to check if they offer any continuing education or refresher courses to help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and technologies.

Related: What does a CNC Machine Operator do?

Top 11 CNC Machine Operator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CNC Machine Operators today.

1. Certified CNC Machine Operator (CCMO)

Certified CNC Machine Operator (CCMO) is a certification program for individuals who have the knowledge and skills to operate CNC machines. This certification is offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).

To become certified, an individual must pass a written exam and demonstrate their ability to safely and effectively operate a CNC machine. The exam covers topics such as safety, setup, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, programming, and quality control.

The certification process typically takes 1-2 months to complete. To get started, individuals should contact NIMS to register for the CCMO exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on the type of certification sought; however, it typically ranges between $200-$400 USD.

2. Certified CNC Programmer (CCP)

Certified CNC Programmer (CCP) is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of CNC machine operators, programmers, and technicians. The certification program is based on industry standards and covers topics such as setup and operation of CNC machines, programming, safety, quality control, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

The CCP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that consists of a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion tests knowledge in areas such as mathematics, machine operations, safety procedures, programming principles and techniques, quality control methods, troubleshooting methods, materials selection processes, and more. The practical portion consists of actual operation of a CNC machine using the same type of software used in industry.

In order to become certified as a CCP one must meet certain criteria including having at least two years experience in CNC machining or programming or have completed an approved NIMS training program. Once these criteria are met the applicant can then register for the CCP exam which costs $250.00 USD. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete with additional time allowed for breaks. Upon successful completion of both portions of the exam the applicant will receive their Certified CNC Programmer (CCP) certificate from NIMS which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

3. Certified Master CNC Operator (CMCO)

A Certified Master CNC Operator (CMCO) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of proficiency in operating Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. This certification is offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), and it requires passing both written and practical exams.

To become a CMCO, applicants must first complete a minimum of two years of experience in CNC machining or possess an equivalent combination of education and experience. They must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, machine setup, tooling, programming, and troubleshooting. Once the written exam is passed, applicants must then pass a practical exam that tests their skills in running a CNC machine.

The cost to obtain the CMCO certification varies depending on the location of the testing center; however, most centers charge around $500-$600 for both exams combined. The entire process typically takes three to four months to complete from start to finish.

4. Certified Production Technician (CPT)

Certified Production Technician (CPT) is a nationally recognized certification program designed to assess and validate the skills of production technicians in manufacturing operations. The CPT program recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required for successful performance in a manufacturing environment.

The CPT certification is offered by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC). It consists of four modules: Safety, Quality Practices & Measurement, Manufacturing Processes & Production, and Maintenance Awareness. Each module has its own exam that must be passed in order to receive the CPT certification.

It typically takes about 12-18 months to complete all four modules and pass all four exams. This includes studying for each exam, taking practice tests, and attending any necessary training courses.

To get certified as a Certified Production Technician (CPT), you must first register with MSSC and then take all four exams within two years. After passing each exam, you will receive an official certificate from MSSC that verifies your achievement.

The cost of the CPT certification depends on which training provider you choose to use for your studies as well as any additional fees associated with taking the exams. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on how much preparation you need to do before taking the exams.

5. Certified Machinist (CM)

Certified Machinist (CM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of machinists. The certification is offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a machinist’s proficiency in the areas of safety, quality, and productivity.

To become certified as a Certified Machinist (CM), individuals must pass two exams: the NIMS Machining Level I exam and either the NIMS Machining Level II or III exam. The Level I exam covers basic concepts such as tooling, workholding, measuring, and cutting tools. The Level II or III exams cover more advanced topics such as CNC programming and setup.

The process of becoming certified as a Certified Machinist (CM) typically takes between three to six months depending on how quickly an individual can study and complete the necessary exams. To get started, individuals must first register for an account with NIMS and pay the required fees. Once registered, individuals will be able to access study materials and practice tests to help them prepare for their exams. After passing both exams with a score of at least 70%, individuals will receive their certification from NIMS.

The cost of becoming certified as a Certified Machinist (CM) varies depending on which level of exam an individual chooses to take. The Level I exam costs $75 while the Level II or III exams cost $150 each. Additionally, there are other associated costs such as registration fees ($50) and study materials ($25-$100).

6. Certified Automated Manufacturing Technician (CAMT)

Certified Automated Manufacturing Technician (CAMT) is a certification program that provides recognition for those who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to work with automated manufacturing systems. The program is designed to help ensure that technicians have the technical knowledge and skills needed to maintain and troubleshoot automated systems in the manufacturing environment.

The CAMT certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as safety, electrical systems, PLCs, robotics, vision systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, motion control, and more. The practical exam tests an individual’s ability to diagnose and troubleshoot problems with automated equipment.

The CAMT certification process typically takes about four months to complete. To get certified, individuals must first register with the International Society of Automation (ISA), pay the registration fee ($250 USD), and then take the written exam at an ISA-approved testing center. Once they pass the written exam, they can then take the practical exam at an ISA-approved training center or facility.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take your exams and any additional training you may need. Generally speaking, it typically costs around $500-$1,000 USD for both exams and any additional training required for certification.

7. Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)

Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced industrial maintenance mechanics. This certification is offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

The CIMM program consists of four levels of certification: Core, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each level requires a certain number of hours in classroom instruction, hands-on training, and field experience. The Core level is an introductory course that covers basic safety principles, hand tools, power tools, fasteners and materials used in industrial maintenance. The other three levels cover more advanced topics such as electrical systems, fluid power systems, mechanical systems, welding processes, machine operations and troubleshooting techniques.

To obtain the CIMM certification you must complete all four levels of the program within five years. After completing each level you will need to take an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Upon successful completion of all four exams you will receive your CIMM certificate from NCCER.

The cost for the CIMM program varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,500 per level.

8. NIMS Machining Level I Certification

NIMS Machining Level I Certification is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is designed to validate the knowledge, skills and abilities of machinists who are proficient in basic machining operations. The certification includes a written assessment and hands-on performance evaluation.

The written assessment covers topics such as safety, precision measurement, machine setup and operation, materials selection and fabrication processes. The hands-on performance evaluation requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to set up and operate various types of machine tools including lathes, milling machines and drill presses.

It typically takes about six months to complete the NIMS Machining Level I Certification process. Candidates must first register with NIMS and then complete a self-study program that includes reading assigned material, completing practice tests and taking an online exam. Once they have passed the online exam, they can then apply to take the hands-on performance evaluation at a certified testing center.

The cost of NIMS Machining Level I Certification varies depending on the testing center but typically ranges from $300-$600 USD.

9. NIMS Machining Level II Certification

NIMS Machining Level II Certification is a nationally recognized certification that verifies a machinist’s knowledge and skills. It is the highest level of certification available from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). The certification process involves completing four NIMS-developed tests, which cover topics such as safety, mathematics, blueprint reading, and measurement.

The tests can be taken at any NIMS-approved testing center. Each test takes approximately two hours to complete, so it typically takes eight hours to complete all four tests. There are no prerequisites for taking the tests; however, it is recommended that applicants have at least one year of experience in machining before attempting the tests.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the testing center, but typically ranges from $200-$400. Upon successful completion of all four tests, applicants will receive their NIMS Machining Level II Certification card in the mail within six weeks.

10. American Society for Quality – Quality Technician Certification

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Quality Technician Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to perform quality assurance tasks in a variety of industries. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's competency in quality assurance principles and practices. The certification is valid for three years, after which time it must be renewed.

To become certified as an ASQ Quality Technician, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, process improvement methods, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must submit additional documentation verifying their experience in quality assurance activities.

The cost of the ASQ Quality Technician Certification varies depending on the type of membership chosen by the applicant. Non-members pay $395 USD for the exam fee plus applicable taxes; members pay $295 USD plus applicable taxes.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their ASQ Quality Technician Certification within four weeks of submitting their application materials.

11. American Welding Society – Welder Performance Qualification Certification

The American Welding Society (AWS) Welder Performance Qualification Certification is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a welder’s ability to meet the required welding standards for various types of welds. It is designed to ensure that welders are qualified to perform specific welding processes and can produce quality welds in accordance with AWS standards.

To obtain the certification, a welder must pass a series of tests administered by an AWS-accredited testing agency. The tests typically include visual inspection, bend tests, radiographic testing, and destructive testing. The tests may vary depending on the type of welding process being tested.

The cost of the certification depends on the type of test being performed and the number of tests needed to complete it. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 per test.

It usually takes between two weeks and two months for a welder to complete all of the necessary tests and receive their certification.

Do You Really Need a CNC Machine Operator Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a CNC Machine Operator Certificate to become a CNC machine operator. However, having such a certification can give you an edge in the job market and show potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a CNC machine operator.

Having a CNC Machine Operator Certificate is one way to demonstrate your proficiency in the operation of computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Certification programs typically involve hands-on training with real-life scenarios, where students learn how to program, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines. The certificate also provides proof that you have completed the necessary coursework and passed tests verifying your knowledge of safety procedures, machining processes, and industry standards for quality control.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a CNC Machine Operator Certificate is up to you. Those who are already working as CNC operators may find it beneficial to invest in additional training if they want to stay competitive in their field or make themselves more attractive candidates for higher-level positions. However, those just starting out may be able to find entry-level jobs without any formal certification if they possess the right combination of technical knowledge and experience.

Related: CNC Machine Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About CNC Machine Operator Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a CNC Machine Operator?

A: The requirements to become a CNC Machine Operator vary depending on the employer, but typically include either a high school diploma or equivalent, previous experience with machine operation, and completion of an approved training program.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a CNC Machine Operator?

A: The length of time needed to obtain certification as a CNC Machine Operator depends on the specific training program chosen, but most range from six months to two years.

3. Do I need any special qualifications or skills to become a CNC Machine Operator?

A: Yes, you should have basic mechanical aptitude, strong math skills (especially geometry and trigonometry), good hand-eye coordination, and knowledge of safety protocols.

4. What is included in the certification process for CNC Machine Operators?

A: The certification process includes completing an approved training program which teaches technical skills related to machine operation as well as safety practices and procedures. Additionally, some employers may require applicants to pass an exam after completing their training program.

5. Is certification required for all CNC Machine Operators?

A: While not required by law, many employers prefer or require their operators to be certified prior to operating machines in their facilities. Certification can demonstrate that an individual has obtained the necessary knowledge and skills necessary for safe operation of machinery and equipment.