Top CNC Programmer sections that make the best resume
- Header
- Professional summary
- Experience (with numbers & results)
- Relevant skills
- Education
- Certifications
How to write a CNC Programmer resume experience section
CNC Programmer Experience Section Checklist:
- Keep it short: use no more than 4-6 bullet points per position;
- Go for short, easy-to-read sentences to keep recruiters engaged;
- Focus on relevant job experience that will enhance your application;
- Describe your experience using the C-A-R (challenge, action, result) methodology;
- Ditch buzzwords and go for power words instead.
Need examples? We looked through thousands of CNC Programmer resumes and gathered some examples of what the ideal experience section looks like. Check them out below!
- Reduced machine setup time by 30% through optimized CNC programs
- Implemented new CNC programming techniques resulting in a 15% increase in machining accuracy
- Created custom CNC programs for one-off and small batch components, achieving high precision and quality
- Collaborated with engineering team to interpret technical drawings and identify opportunities for process improvement
- Programmed and set up CNC lathes with Fanuc controls, producing components to tight tolerances
- Machined various oil and gas, general engineering, and exotic materials
- Achieved a 20% reduction in scrap rates by optimizing machining processes
- Maintained machines to ensure optimal performance, minimizing downtime
- Developed and implemented CNC programs for one-off and small batch components, ensuring high quality and precision
- Collaborated with design team to identify opportunities for cost reduction through optimized machining processes
- Maintained and repaired CNC machines to ensure optimal performance and reduce downtime
- Achieved a 10% increase in production output by implementing new CNC programming techniques
- Developed new CNC programs for milling machines using Heidenhain controls to increase efficiency by 25%
- Reduced machine setup time by 30% through optimization of tooling and fixturing
- Improved component accuracy to within ±0.005mm tolerance for a high-value aerospace project
- Collaborated with design team to develop complex geometries for challenging materials such as titanium and Inconel
- Trained 2 junior machinists in CNC programming, resulting in 20% reduction in programming errors
PRO TIP
Don't make the same mistake everyone else does. What we mean is, don't list your CNC Programmer job responsibilities instead of your achievements. Recruiters know what you do. They want to know what kind of difference you can bring to their company. Focus on what you've accomplished.
Action Verbs for your CNC Programmer Resume
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An Impressive Skills Section for Your CNC Programmer Resume
Do this if you want to make your skills section stand out:
- Check the job advert for keywords and add them to your skills section to pass ATS;
- List only skills that are relevant to the position to keep the hiring manager focused;
- Balance between hard, soft, and technical skills;
- Elaborate on some of your strongest skills in other sections of your CNC Programmer resume, e.g. the experience section or your resume’s summary.
Top skills for your cnc programmer resume
CNC programming
Blueprint reading
CAD/CAM software
Precision measurement
Tool selection
Material selection
Machine operation
G-code programming
Fixture design
Cutting tool maintenance
Problem solving
Attention to detail
Time management
Communication
Adaptability
Critical thinking
Collaboration
Attention to safety
Organization
Technical aptitude
PRO TIP
Avoid getting sidetracked by Applicant tracking software by including a tech skills' section matching the job description and your own qualifications.
Recommended reads:
CNC Programmer resume header: tips, red flags, and best practices
Job-winning CNC Programmer resume summary checklist:
- Mention your total years of experience in the field;
- Highlight one or two of your top achievements;
- Avoid getting into too much detail – you’ll do that in the experience section;
- Focus on short sentences that are easy to read and add value to your application.
Resume summary formula:
PRO TIP
Include a link to your portfolio in your resume header. Most companies will require that you include one in your resume, and even if they don’t, it’s an excellent opportunity to directly show them your proudest projects.
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Formatting Your CNC Programmer Resume
What’s worse than a .docx resume? A resume with a poorly chosen format.
In general, there are three basic resume formats we advise you to stick with:
- Reverse-chronological resume format;
- Functional skills-based resume format;
- Combination (or Hybrid) resume format.
Choosing between them is easy when you’re aware of your applicant profile – it depends on your years of experience, the position you’re applying for, and whether you’re looking for an industry change or not.
The reverse-chronological resume format is just that – all your relevant jobs in reverse-chronological order. It’s great for applicants with lots of experience, no career gaps, and little desire for creativity.
When working with less experienced applicants, we suggest the functional skills-based resume format. It’s great for recent graduates or people with large career gaps. Functional skills-based resumes focus on your personality, the skills you have, your interests, and your education. Ultimately, the idea is to show you’re the perfect fit without putting too much emphasis on your work experience (or lack thereof).
If you’re in the middle or are generally looking to make your resume feel more modern and personal, go for the combination or hybrid resume format. It offers the best of both worlds by combining sections focused on experience and work-related skills and at the same time keeping space for projects, awards, certifications, or even creative sections like ‘my typical day’ and ‘my words to live by’.
Here’s our resume format and style checklist:
- Choose a traditional resume font sized 12p;
- Go for standard 1-inch resume margins;
- Match the length of your CNC Programmer resume with your experience – choose a one-page template if you have less than 10 years of experience, and be careful with two-page templates;
- Send your resume in PDF – in this way, you’ll avoid formatting issues and potential editing from third parties.
And in case you want to go the extra mile, check out our guide for crafting a resume that stands out.
