CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a CNC Production Engineer, you play a vital role in the manufacturing industry, focusing on the operation and optimization of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery. Your primary responsibility involves designing, maintaining, and improving the processes used to produce precision parts and products.
Key aspects of your role include:
Process Development: You develop manufacturing strategies that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure product quality. Your work directly impacts the speed and accuracy of production timelines.
Technical Expertise: You apply your technical knowledge to interpret and analyze designs and blueprints, translating them into functional machine programs. This requires a thorough understanding of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software.
Collaboration: You often work closely with machinists, quality control teams, and design engineers to ensure that production meets both design specifications and safety standards. This collaboration is essential for identifying and solving issues that may arise during production.
Quality Assurance: Ensuring the high quality of the final products is a critical aspect of your job. You implement quality control measures and troubleshooting processes, which help maintain the integrity of the production line.
Continuous Improvement: You are tasked with assessing current manufacturing processes and identifying areas for improvement. This may involve the introduction of new technologies or methodologies that can enhance productivity and reduce costs.
Training and Support: You often take on a mentorship role, training new operators on CNC equipment and best practices. Your experience and guidance help cultivate a skilled workforce adept at navigating complex manufacturing environments.
In sum, your expertise as a CNC Production Engineer is essential to the manufacturing sector, ensuring that production runs smoothly, efficiently, and to high standards of quality. Your contributions not only optimize the manufacturing process but also support the overall competitiveness of your organization in a dynamic market.
CNC Production Engineer Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma
To become a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma, you typically need a combination of formal education and specialized training. Here are the relevant college degree programs that can prepare you for this career:
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology: This program focuses on the operation and setup of CNC machinery, equipping you with the skills needed to create precision parts and components. You will learn about programming, operation, maintenance, and safety protocols specific to CNC equipment.
Manufacturing Engineering Technology: This degree emphasizes the application of engineering principles in manufacturing processes. You will gain knowledge in materials science, production planning, quality control, and the use of advanced manufacturing technologies, including CNC systems.
Mechanical Engineering Technology: This program involves the study of mechanical systems and the design of machines and tools. Courses often include statics, dynamics, and thermal systems, which are relevant to understanding and improving CNC machinery and processes.
Mechatronics: A multidisciplinary field combining mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and control engineering. This degree prepares you to work with automated systems, robotics, and CNC machines, focusing on the integration of the various systems required for modern manufacturing.
Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology: This program specifically targets the design and application of robotic systems and automation technologies. You will learn about programming, control systems, and the implementation of robotic systems that often work alongside CNC machines.
Industrial Engineering: This degree covers a broad range of topics related to optimizing complex processes and systems. You will study production efficiency, process design, and quality improvement, all of which are essential for CNC operations and manufacturing environments.
In addition to these degree programs, practical training through internships or cooperative education experiences is beneficial for gaining hands-on experience in CNC machining and production environments.
Best Schools to become a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma 2024
John C Calhoun State Community College
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Texas A & M University-College Station
Clemson University
Purdue University-Main Campus
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
- May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
CNC Production Engineer Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Technical Proficiency: You need a strong understanding of CNC machinery, including lathes, mills, and routers. Familiarity with various CNC programming languages, such as G-code, is essential.
Blueprint Reading: Being able to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics will enable you to understand specifications and translate them into machine operations.
Problem-Solving Skills: You should possess the ability to troubleshoot CNC machineries and processes, identifying issues quickly and implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime.
Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in CNC machining. You must ensure that every specification is met and every tolerance is adhered to in the manufacturing process.
Mathematical Skills: A solid grasp of mathematics, including geometry and trigonometry, is necessary for calculations related to measurements, angles, and tolerances.
Quality Control Knowledge: Familiarity with quality assurance processes and standards will help you monitor production quality and ensure compliance with safety and operational regulations.
Computer Skills: Proficiency in CAD/CAM software is important for programming machines, simulating operations, and adjusting designs as needed for production efficiency.
Mechanical Aptitude: You should have a good understanding of mechanical systems and how they operate, aiding in machine setup, maintenance, and repair.
Project Management: Skills in managing timelines, resources, and team collaboration can enhance workflow efficiency and project success.
Communication Skills: You must be effective in conveying technical information clearly and concisely to team members and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies as they emerge will keep you competitive in an evolving field.
Teamwork: Collaboration with engineers, designers, and operators is key to ensuring successful production processes and outcomes.
Job Duties for CNC Production Engineers
Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- 1CadCam Unigraphics
- Vero Software WorkNC
Video conferencing software
- FaceTime
Basic Skills
- Figuring out how to use new ideas or things
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma
The demand for CNC Production Engineers in Oklahoma has been growing steadily, influenced by the increasing emphasis on automation and precision manufacturing across various industries.
Many companies in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas are actively seeking skilled CNC professionals to improve their manufacturing processes and enhance production efficiency.
The current trends in Oklahoma reflect a positive outlook for CNC Production Engineers, with numerous job openings reported across metropolitan areas like Oklahoma City and Tulsa. These urban centers are known for their robust manufacturing capabilities and substantial investments in technology.
Geographically, certain regions in Oklahoma are emerging as hotspots for CNC job opportunities:
- Oklahoma City: The state's capital boasts a diverse manufacturing sector, contributing to a substantial number of openings for CNC Production Engineers, particularly in aerospace manufacturing.
- Tulsa: As a hub for oil and gas industries, Tulsa offers positions focused on CNC machining specifically tailored to energy production and associated maintenance.
- Norman: Known for its growing tech scene, Norman also shows promise for CNC roles, especially with companies investing in precision machining technologies.
The growth potential for CNC Production Engineers is significant due to the ongoing technological advancements in manufacturing processes. As companies adopt newer CNC technologies, the need for engineers who can design, program, and troubleshoot these systems is expected to rise.
Additionally, collaboration between educational institutions and manufacturing firms is enhancing the workforce quality, making it easier for employers to find trained CNC Production Engineers, further solidifying the job market.
Oklahoma’s commitment to fostering industrial growth and innovation positions it as a compelling option for those considering a career as a CNC Production Engineer, making it an exciting time to enter this field.
Top Related Careers to CNC Production Engineer 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
A leading organization that provides credentials and training resources for skilled workers in the manufacturing industry. NIMS offers resources specifically related to CNC machining and production engineering.
NIMS WebsiteSociety of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
SME offers a wealth of information on manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining. Their publications and educational events can enhance your knowledge and skills in the field.
SME WebsiteAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
An authority in the engineering community, ASME offers resources including publications, conferences, and professional development opportunities that are beneficial for CNC engineers.
ASME WebsiteOklahoma State University - Institute of Technology
The institute offers specialized programs in CNC technology and machining. Their resources can help you gain relevant qualifications and skills for a career as a CNC Production Engineer.
OSUIT WebsiteCNC Cookbook
An online resource providing guides, tutorials, and forums for CNC programming and machining. This site includes valuable insights and strategies from industry professionals.
CNC Cookbook WebsiteLinkedIn Learning
This platform provides a variety of online courses on CNC machining, programming, and related skills. Courses are often taught by industry experts and can be beneficial for continuous learning.
LinkedIn Learning WebsiteThe Fabricator
A leading publication in the metal fabrication industry that offers articles, news, and resources related to CNC machining and production engineering.
The Fabricator WebsiteMachinery's Handbook
A complete reference book with essential information for machinists and CNC programmers, covering mathematical formulas, specifications, and standards.
Machinery's Handbook WebsiteOklahoma Manufacturing Alliance
A valuable resource for networking and support within the manufacturing community in Oklahoma. The organization provides information on training programs and industry updates.
Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance WebsiteHaas Automation, Inc.
A leading manufacturer of CNC equipment that offers training and resources on their machines and methods for effective production engineering.
Haas Automation Website
Utilizing these resources can help you further your career as a CNC Production Engineer and stay updated with industry developments and educational opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma
What is a CNC Production Engineer?
A CNC Production Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing computer numerical control (CNC) processes in manufacturing. This role involves using CAD/CAM software to create machine programs, overseeing machine operation, and ensuring product quality.What qualifications do I need to become a CNC Production Engineer?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related field is required. Additionally, practical experience with CNC machinery and programming is essential. Certifications in CNC programming or machining are often advantageous.What skills are most important for a CNC Production Engineer?
Key skills include proficiency in CNC programming languages (such as G-code and M-code), strong mathematical and analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with CAD/CAM software. Communication skills are also important for collaborating with other engineers and production staff.What industries employ CNC Production Engineers?
CNC Production Engineers are employed in various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical devices, and general manufacturing. Any industry that requires precision machining and fabrication may seek professionals in this role.What are typical job responsibilities of a CNC Production Engineer?
Responsibilities often include:- Developing and optimizing CNC machining processes
- Preparing and editing CNC programs
- Conducting tooling and fixture design
- Overseeing production runs and ensuring quality control
- Troubleshooting machining issues and implementing improvements
What is the average salary for a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma?
As of recent data, the average salary for a CNC Production Engineer in Oklahoma is approximately $70,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, skills, and the specific employer.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience, you can move into roles such as Senior CNC Engineer, Production Manager, or even higher-level engineering positions. Continuous learning and professional development can further enhance your career prospects.How important is experience in CNC operations for this role?
Experience in CNC operations is very important. Hands-on experience provides a practical understanding of machine behavior, which is critical for effective program development and troubleshooting.What software should I be familiar with?
Familiarity with CAD/CAM software is crucial. Common programs include Mastercam, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Fusion 360. Knowledge of CNC simulation software can also be beneficial.What are the working conditions like for a CNC Production Engineer?
CNC Production Engineers typically work in manufacturing environments. This may include exposure to machinery and some physical activity. Safety protocols are essential, and engineers usually work standard office hours, with occasional overtime as needed.What resources are available for continuing education and networking?
You can access various resources for continuing education, such as community colleges, online courses, and professional organizations like the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). Networking opportunities can be found through industry conferences, workshops, and local manufacturing associations.