AI exposure Production
Will AI replace computer numerically controlled tool operators?
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators. US occupation 51-9161.
The reading
2.2%
of the time computer numerically controlled tool operators spend on their work goes on tasks where AI is already being used to do that work.of computer numerically controlled tool operators' working hours go on tasks AI has already started taking off their plate.
Ranked 315 of 756 US occupations. More exposed than 57% of them.Further along than 57% of them.
Per cent of working time Square-law scale
Average US job 7.7%
Around the middle of the pack.Keeping pace with the average job.
What AI already does for computer numerically controlled tool operatorsWhat computer numerically controlled tool operators no longer do alone
O*NET lists 27 tasks for computer numerically controlled tool operators. AI use at work shows up in 1 of them. Each score runs from 0.5, where every observed use helps a person with the task, to 1, where every use does the task outright.
- Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions. mostly automated 1.00
What it does not touch, yetWhat still needs a human
26 of the 27 tasks show no AI use at work in the data.
- Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.Core task
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.Core task
- Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.Core task
- Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.Core task
- Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.Core task
- Control coolant systems.Core task
Show the other 20
- Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.Core task
- Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.Core task
- Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.Core task
- Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.Core task
- Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems.Core task
- Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.Core task
- Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.Core task
- Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.Core task
- Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.Core task
- Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.Core task
- Remove and replace dull cutting tools.Core task
- Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.Core task
- Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.Core task
- Set up future jobs while machines are operating.Core task
- Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.Core task
- Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.Core task
- Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.Core task
- Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.Core task
- Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.
- Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot.
How that compares
Among the 98 production occupations, computer numerically controlled tool operators rank 15. The group averages 0.8%, and its most exposed job is Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers at 12.1%. The average US occupation sits at 7.7%.
Just above in the ranking
- 310Office Machine Operators, Except Computer 2.4%
- 313Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary 2.3%
- 313Tellers 2.3%
Just below
What this does and does not mean
Exposure is observed use, not a forecast. Anthropic maps work conversations with Claude onto the tasks O*NET lists for each job and asks, of the tasks AI could speed up, which are actually being used for at work. A use that does the task outright counts in full and a use that assists a person counts half. The task scores are averaged into the occupation figure by the share of time spent on each task.
A high figure means AI is already part of how this work gets done. It does not mean anyone has been replaced. Anthropic's own reading of the labour market finds no systematic rise in unemployment among exposed workers so far, and about 14% fewer 22 to 25 year olds starting exposed jobs.No measurable rise in unemployment among exposed workers so far, and about 14% fewer 22 to 25 year olds starting these jobs. Gap years for everyone. Labor market impacts, 5 March 2026.
Task list and titles from O*NET 31.0 by the US Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Scores from the Anthropic Economic Index (CC BY). Checked 1 November 2026. How the ranking works.