A CNC (computer numerical control) programmer should have knowledge in the following areas:

• CNC machine codes and programming languages such as G-code and M-code.
• CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) software, which is used to create and edit the CNC programs.
• CNC machining processes and techniques, including milling, turning, and drilling.
• Manufacturing and materials science, including knowledge of different types of materials and how they are affected by various machining processes.
• Quality control and inspection techniques to ensure that the final product meets specifications.
• Safety procedures for working with CNC machinery.
• Understanding of technical drawings, blueprints and 3D models
• Knowledge of the machine tool control systems and how to troubleshoot and maintain them.
• Knowledge of various cutting tools and their proper usage and maintenance.
• Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and its application in CNC programming.
• Familiarity with tool path generation and optimization techniques to improve machining efficiency and reduce cycle times.
• Knowledge of advanced programming techniques such as sub-programs, macros, and variables.
• Understanding of machine kinematics and motion control systems.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to CNC machining.
• Understanding of post-processing techniques to convert the CAM generated code to machine-specific code.
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0 and how it’s related to CNC programming such as IoT, big data, and smart manufacturing.
• Knowledge of simulation software that can be used to simulate the machining process before it is executed on the machine.
• Understanding of metrology and how to use measuring instruments to check the accuracy of the final product.
• Familiarity with various control systems such as Fanuc, Siemens, and Haas.
• Understanding of the principles of 5-axis machining and its application in CNC programming.
• Knowledge of workholding methods and fixtures used in CNC machining.
• Understanding of the importance of proper machine setup and calibration.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as Mastercam, Solidworks CAM, and PowerMill.
• Understanding of the principles of multi-tasking machining and how to program for it.
• Knowledge of cutting tool life management and how to optimize tool life.
• Understanding of the principles of additive manufacturing and how it relates to CNC programming.
• Familiarity with machining simulation software such as Vericut, which can be used to verify the accuracy of CNC programs before they are executed on the machine.
• Understanding of the principles of production planning and how to optimize CNC machining operations to increase productivity and reduce costs.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and industry standards related to CNC machining.
• Understanding of the principles of high-speed machining and its application in CNC programming.
• Knowledge of the principles of lean manufacturing and how to apply it to CNC machining operations.
• Familiarity with software for monitoring and analyzing machine performance such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and SPC (Statistical Process Control).
• Understanding of the principles of CNC machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of the principles of flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) and how to program for it.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as Edgecam, Hypermill, and Gibbscam.
• Understanding of the principles of precision machining and how to achieve it with CNC programming.
• Knowledge of the principles of CNC machine retrofitting and upgrades.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as Delcam, GibbsCAM, and AlphaCAM.
• Understanding of the principles of Industry 4.0, Smart Factory and how it relates to CNC programming such as IoT, big data, and smart manufacturing.
• Knowledge of the principles of using CNC machines for reverse engineering and copying parts.
• Understanding of the principles of CNC machine tool selection, based on the production requirements and specific task.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as PowerShape, PowerMill and PowerInspect.
• Understanding of the principles of CNC machine tool integration with other machines and equipment in the factory.
• Knowledge of the principles of precision measurement and how to use measuring instruments to check the accuracy of CNC-machined parts.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as SolidCAM and NX CAM.
• Understanding of the principles of CNC machine tool data management and data sharing between different machines in the factory.
• Knowledge of the principles of CNC machine tool monitoring and data analysis, including machine performance and process monitoring.
• Familiarity with software for creating and editing CNC programs, such as FeatureCAM, and PowerShape.
• Understanding of the principles of CNC machine tool control systems, including how to troubleshoot and maintain them.
• Knowledge of the principles of CNC machine tool simulation, including how to use simulation software to simulate the machining process before it is executed on the machine.