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Cnc Machining Instructor information

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$22

$29

$38

How much do cnc machining instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc machining instructor in California is $29.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC machining instructor?

A CNC Machining Instructor is a professional who teaches students how to operate and program Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. These instructors typically work in technical schools, community colleges, or manufacturing training centers, providing both classroom and hands-on instruction. They cover topics such as reading blueprints, setting up machines, understanding machining processes, and ensuring safety procedures are followed. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in advanced manufacturing and CNC machining.

What is the difference between Cnc Machining Instructor vs Cnc Programmer?

AspectCnc Machining InstructorCnc Programmer
CredentialsTypically requires CNC certification and teaching experienceRequires CNC programming certifications and technical skills
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, training centers, workshopsManufacturing facilities, machine shops, production environments
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, vocational schools, training companiesManufacturers, machine shops, aerospace, automotive industries

The main difference is that a Cnc Machining Instructor focuses on teaching and training students or trainees in CNC machining techniques, often in educational settings. In contrast, a Cnc Programmer designs and develops CNC programs to operate machines in manufacturing environments. Both roles require technical CNC knowledge, but their primary responsibilities and work environments differ.

What are some common challenges CNC machining instructors face when teaching students with varying levels of experience?

CNC Machining Instructors often work with students who have a wide range of backgrounds, from complete beginners to those with hands-on shop experience. A key challenge is ensuring that all students grasp foundational concepts while still providing enough advanced material to keep more experienced learners engaged. Instructors must balance practical, hands-on training with classroom theory and often need to adapt their teaching style to address different learning speeds. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving CNC technology and integrating new software or equipment into the curriculum can be demanding but rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC machining instructor?

To thrive as a CNC Machining Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of CNC machining processes, programming, and a background in manufacturing or industrial technology, often supported by industry certifications or a technical degree. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, CNC machine controls (like Fanuc, Haas, or Siemens), and safety regulations is essential. Strong communication, patience, and instructional skills help convey complex concepts and support diverse learners. These skills ensure students gain practical, industry-relevant expertise and maintain high safety and quality standards in their training.
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What job categories do people searching Cnc Machining Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cnc Machining Instructor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cnc Machining Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Cnc Machining Instructor job openings:
Cnc Machining Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Machining Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Full Time, and 69% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,838 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Technical Trainer, CNC Machining (Starship Components)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
TECHNICAL TRAINER, CNC MACHINING (STARSHIP COMPONENTS)
A Machining Technical Trainer is driven by the fundamental belief that hands-on technical education is essential to building world-class manufacturing capability. This role combines that belief with a strong sense of urgency, creativity, and resourcefulness to develop and deliver practical training that enables the machine shop team to safely and efficiently operate Okuma mill-turns, mills, and lathes. The ideal candidate brings deep machine shop experience, educational experience developing and delivering technical training programs, strong communication skills, innovative problem-solving abilities, and a passion for contributing to the advancement of human space exploration through precision machining excellence.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Create course materials using educational tools: PowerPoint, student handouts, exams, study materials, and instructor-led student assessments focused on CNC machining
  • Own, create, and edit training Engineering Masters (EMs) for relevant machining training courses
  • Partner directly with subject matter experts to design and develop engaging content for a variety of audiences and delivery modes (online, classroom, and shop floor) with clear strategies and tactics to achieve desired learning outcomes, including but not limited to: Okuma operation and programming, general mill-turn operation, CNC setup, tool selection, and machining safety
  • Lead training modules (On the Job and self-paced) for Production & Engineering teams on Okuma mill-turns, mills, and lathes
  • Assess and evaluate student performance through practical tests on CNC and conventional equipment, machining projects, and written exams
  • Organize, schedule, and manage enrollments, attendance, and student performance
  • Develop process specifications and research new machining technologies and techniques for Okuma CNC systems
  • Perform special assignments (e.g. leading machine setup improvements or process modifications in the shop)
  • Engage Production Management, Engineering, Quality and other subject matter experts to gather feedback and implement process improvements for future training modules
  • Coordinate with third party vendors for specialized Okuma resources and instruction when needed

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years of experience as a technical/on-the-job trainer, conducting hands-on, instructor-led machining or CNC courses

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, industrial education, or related field
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in a machine shop environment
  • 5+ years of experience creating training materials and delivering technical training programs
  • Strong knowledge of Okuma mill-turns, mills, and lathes
  • Experience programming and operating Okuma CNC systems (G-code, M-code, tool offsets, work coordinate systems)
  • Proficiency with the development of training programs and materials, including student assessments and hands-on machining exercises
  • Ability to independently analyze, review, and research machining processes and applicable standards
  • In-depth understanding of production machining processes (CNC milling, turning, mill-turn operations, tooling, fixturing, and precision measurement)
  • Excellent oral and written training and communication skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and experience with video editing or online training module development
  • Demonstrated experience as a team-oriented self-starter, eager to meet and exceed objectives with the ability to handle a multi-project environment
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and machining specifications

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to work overtime and weekends based on site operational needs
  • Must be able to lift 25 lbs. unassisted, stand for extended periods, and move safely around CNC machine tools

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
$95,000.00 - $120,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

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Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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