Thanks to the continual advancements and complexity of machine technology, CNC machinist career is experiencing a level of demand never seen before. To start as a CNC machinist in Illinois, you must become familiar with the critical steps involved to avoid wasting time on unnecessary concerns.
Additionally, understanding the process beforehand helps you make better decisions, pick the most suitable alternative for you, and stay encouraged along the way.
To that end, we have highlighted below all of the critical steps involved in becoming a CNC machinist in Illinois, along with the licensing requirements, top programs in the state, and potential salary, among others.
How to Become a CNC Machinist in Illinois
Below are the key steps involved in becoming a CNC machinist in Illinois.
High School Diploma
Like most states, Illinois requires CNC machinists to have a high-school diploma or GED before starting. It also helps if they have a strong foundation in mathematics, geometry, and algebra.
Post-Secondary Requirements
After high school, aspiring CNC machinists in Illinois are expected to enroll in a post-secondary training program or acquire training on the job. Community colleges, technical schools, and vocational institutions all over the state offer the most popular post-secondary programs.
Enrolling in a program that has a robust hands-on approach, recognizes industry standards, and is accredited is usually advisable.
On-the-job training
Training on the job is essential for aspiring CNC machinists because it helps them acquire experience working with CNC machines. It is possible to obtain such training by working as an apprentice or as a trainee under the guidance of an accomplished machinist.
Machining skills
During a CNC machinist training program, candidates must learn technical skills such as computer programming, code writing and editing, CAM software, milling machine operation, and blueprint reading.
They are also expected to pick up other intangible skills that will prove just as valuable, including problem-solving, critical thinking, pressure handling, and more.
CNC machinists are also expected to understand that safety is paramount. The best programs incorporate safety training to familiarize students with safety protocols and procedures.
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State Licensure and Certification Requirements
As with most other states, CNC machinists in Illinois do not typically need a statewide or city license to work in the field. Of course, you must have a general business license if you’re operating a CNC business.
While the state has no certification requirement, obtaining certification is often crucial to improving job prospects. The most popular certificates for CNC machinists in Illinois are the credentials offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
The institute offers Machine Level I and II credentials for entry-level workers in the field, covering fundamental machining skills, safety, and measurement.
Top CNC Machinist Schools in Illinois
Below are some notable CNC machinist schools in Illinois for interested candidates to consider:
Richard J. Daley College
Richard J. Daley College offers comprehensive CNC machine training for aspiring machinists in Illinois to develop all the skills they will need to secure employment in the state and across the Nation. This certificate program includes 16 credits and deals with critical topics such as milling operations, turning operations, CNC fundamentals, and a general introduction to the machining process.
College of Lake Country
College of Lake County is another excellent alternative for individuals seeking rigorous CNC machine training in Illinois. The school’s Precision Machining Technology program is accredited by the NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) and focuses on basic and advanced skills through a 4-month certificate program.
Those who wish to go deeper may choose the 24-month associate degree program.
Jane Addams Resource Corporation
Aspiring CNC machinists in Chicago will be glad that the Jane Addams Resource Corporation offers a free CNC machinist training program for unemployed adults and low-income job seekers. The program also provides industry credentials, OSHA certification, and job placement assistance.
Training lasts 20 weeks, including 500 hours and available evening sessions.
Explore CNC machinist schools by city:
Salary and Job Outlook
Illinois CNC machinists are among the country’s highest-paid, earning an annual salary of $76,444, a few points above the national average. The highest-paid CNC machinists in the state earn an average yearly salary of $102,762, while the bottom ten percent earn an average annual wage of $56,866.
The most experienced machinists earn an annual average salary of $94,492 based on experience alone, while those just starting take home around $68,341.
Furthermore, the highest-paying cities for CNC machinists in Illinois include Peoria ($80,686), Chicago ($79,863), Hannover Park ($79,137), Bloomingdale ($77,209), and Wheeling ($76,099).
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