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Mid levelManufacturing

CNC Machinist resume examples

A CNC machinist resume example should open with a 40-60 word summary naming your machines, materials and tolerances, then list bullets with measurable results such as scrap rate, cycle time and on-time delivery. Include G-code and CAM software, inspection tools and credentials like NIMS so applicant tracking systems match your skills.

Complete example resume

A full sample you can model your own on: summary, experience with measurable results, skills, education and credentials.

Updated:

Alex Morgan (sample)

CNC Machinist

Summary

CNC machinist with 6 years setting up and running 3- and 5-axis mills and lathes in aerospace and medical job shops. Programs in G-code and Mastercam, holds tolerances to +/-0.0005 in and reads blueprints and GD&T. Focused on first-article accuracy, lower scrap and on-time delivery.

Experience

CNC Machinist / Programmer, Summit Precision Machining

2021 - Present
  • Set up and ran 5-axis mills and Swiss lathes, machining titanium and Inconel parts to +/-0.0005 in tolerances
  • Reprogrammed a high-volume bracket in Mastercam, cutting cycle time from 14 to 9 minutes
  • Reduced scrap from 3.2% to 1.1% by adding in-process probing and tool-wear offsets
  • Completed first-article inspections with CMM and micrometers with a 98% first-pass approval rate

CNC Operator, Lakeside Metalworks

2018 - 2021
  • Ran 3-axis vertical mills across three shifts and met 99% on-time delivery
  • Cut changeover time by 20% by standardizing tool kits and setup sheets
  • Trained 4 new operators on setups, offsets and shop safety procedures

Skills

G-code and M-code | Mastercam | Fusion 360 CAM | 5-axis machining | Swiss lathe turning | GD&T | Blueprint reading | CMM inspection | Micrometers and calipers | Fixturing and work holding | Tool selection and wear management | Lean / 5S | Attention to detail | Problem-solving | Time management | Safety discipline | Teamwork | Mentoring

Education

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Machining technology certificate or associate degree

Certifications

  • NIMS CNC machining credentials
  • OSHA 10-hour card

Companies, names and figures in this sample are illustrative. Replace them with your own verified numbers.

See more summary examples

Skills to include

Balance technical expertise with soft skills for a well-rounded CNC Machinist resume.

Technical skills

G-code and M-codeMastercamFusion 360 CAM5-axis machiningSwiss lathe turningGD&TBlueprint readingCMM inspectionMicrometers and calipersFixturing and work holdingTool selection and wear managementLean / 5S

Soft skills

Attention to detailProblem-solvingTime managementSafety disciplineTeamworkMentoring

ATS keywords to include

Applicant tracking systems match on exact terms from the job posting. Use the ones that are true for you, in your skills list and bullets.

  • CNC machinist
  • CNC programming
  • G-code
  • Mastercam
  • Haas
  • Fanuc
  • Mazak
  • GD&T
  • blueprint reading
  • CMM
  • first article inspection
  • tolerances
  • lathe
  • milling
  • setup
  • fixturing
  • SPC
  • ISO 9001
  • AS9100
  • NIMS
  • 5S
  • lean manufacturing
  • scrap reduction
ATS keywords

Formatting tips

Use a clean, ATS-friendly format with clear section headings

Keep your resume to 1 page (entry/mid) or 2 pages (senior/executive)

Use bullet points starting with strong action verbs

Include quantified achievements with specific numbers and percentages

Incorporate CNC, machining, G-code keywords naturally throughout

Use consistent formatting for dates, company names, and job titles

Save as PDF to preserve formatting unless specifically asked for Word

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these frequent pitfalls when writing your Manufacturing resume.

Using generic descriptions instead of CNC Machinist-specific achievements

Listing job duties instead of accomplishments with measurable results

Ignoring ATS optimization and keyword placement

Including outdated skills or irrelevant experience

Using an unprofessional email address

Forgetting to tailor the resume for each application

Including personal information like age, marital status, or photo

Missing quantifiable achievements

Always include numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts to demonstrate your impact as a CNC Machinist.

CNC Machinist resume FAQs

Common questions about writing a resume

What should I include in a CNC Machinist resume?

A CNC Machinist resume should include: contact information, a professional summary highlighting CNC and machining expertise, work experience with quantified achievements, relevant skills section, education, and certifications. Tailor each section to the specific manufacturing role you're targeting.

How long should a CNC Machinist resume be?

For mid-level CNC Machinist positions, your resume should be one to two pages. Focus on relevant experience and achievements in manufacturing rather than trying to include everything. Prioritize impact over length and put the most relevant work first.

What skills are most important for a CNC Machinist resume?

Key skills for a CNC Machinist resume include technical skills like CNC, machining, G-code, precision manufacturing, as well as soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Review job descriptions in manufacturing to identify the most in-demand skills and feature them prominently.

How do I make my CNC Machinist resume stand out?

To make your CNC Machinist resume stand out: 1) Use quantified achievements (percentages, dollar amounts), 2) Include industry keywords like CNC, machining, G-code, 3) Customize for each application, 4) Use a clean, ATS-friendly format, 5) Lead with your strongest qualifications for manufacturing roles.

Should I include a photo on my CNC Machinist resume?

In the US, Canada, and UK, do not include a photo on your CNC Machinist resume as it can lead to unconscious bias and an ATS can't read an image anyway. However, photos may be expected in other countries. Research the norms for your target manufacturing market.

Build your CNC Machinist resume

Start from an ATS-friendly template, then paste a Manufacturing job to tailor it. Building is free, and so is your first tailored application.