Mid-Level

Medical Numerical Control Operator

Medical numerical control operators run computer-controlled machinery for medical device manufacturing — programming, operating, and quality-checking precision parts.

Career Level
Junior
Mid
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Work Personality
I
R
C
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Investigativeanalytical, curious
Realistichands-on, practical
Based on Holland Code framework
What it's like

What it's like to be a Medical Numerical Control Operator

A typical day involves machine setup, monitoring, and inspection of precision parts. Documentation and quality verification run alongside the production work.

Collaboration involves engineers, quality control, and other manufacturing staff. What's harder than expected is the precision tolerance — medical device parts have tight specs, and errors are costly to catch late.

Those who thrive tend to be technically capable, methodical, and quality-focused. If you find satisfaction in precision manufacturing that affects medical care, the role often fits well.

SupportAbove avg
RelationshipsModerate
IndependenceModerate
AchievementLower
Working ConditionsLower
RecognitionLower
O*NET Work Values survey
✦ Editorial — written by Truest from industry research and career patterns
Career Paths

Where this role sits in the broader career landscape — and where it can take you.

$239K$179K$119K$60K$0KLower paying387 metro areas, sorted by salary level
All experience levels1
This level's estimated range
INDUSTRIES PAYING ABOVE AVERAGE
1 BLS OEWS May 2024 covers all Medical Numerical Control Operators (SOC 29-2011.00, 29-2012.00), not just this title · BEA RPP 2023
* Top salaries exceed this figure. BLS caps reported wages at ~$240K to protect individual privacy in high-earning roles.
Exploring the Medical Numerical Control Operator career path? Truest helps you figure out if it's the right fit — and plan your path forward.
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✦ Editorial — career progression and interview guidance based on industry patterns
The Broader Landscape

Roles like this one sit within a broader occupational category. The numbers below reflect that full landscape — helpful for context, but your specific experience will depend on level, specialty, and where you work.

$38K–$98K
Salary Range
10th – 90th percentile
1.4M
U.S. Employment

How this category is changing

$74K$71K$68K$65K$62K201920202021202220232024$62K$74K
BLS OEWS May 2024 · BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034

Skills & Requirements

Critical ThinkingScienceActive ListeningActive ListeningReading ComprehensionQuality Control AnalysisOperations MonitoringMonitoringReading ComprehensionComplex Problem Solving
O*NET OnLine · Bureau of Labor Statistics
29-2011.0029-2012.00

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Federal data: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (May 2024) · BLS Employment Projections · O*NET OnLine
Truest editorial: Fit check, role profile, things that vary, advancement analysis, lateral moves, interview questions.