Application
This unit of competency defines the skills and knowledge required to write basic numerically controlled (NC) and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine programs.
It extends to writing a program to describe simple machine operations, including tool paths, using appropriate software for machines. The program may use common M and G codes but does not include the programming of advanced operations using canned cycles and sub-routines. Technical difficulties are resolved in consultation with appropriate technical advisers.
Where basic programming of computer controlled thermal cutting machines is required unit MEM05054 Write basic NC/CNC programs for thermal cutting machines should also be selected.
Where additional machining skills in excess of unit MEM07005 Perform general machining are required appropriate units should also be selected.
Where programming of advanced operations using canned cycles and sub-routines is required unit MEM07019 Program NC and CNC machining centre should also be selected.
Where the selection and use of power tools/hand held operations is required unit MEM18002 Use power tools/hand held operations should also be selected.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
What You'll Learn
1. Determine job requirements
- 1.1 Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- 1.2 Comply with work health and safety (WHS) requirements at all times
- 1.3 Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with SOPs
- 1.4 Identify job requirements from specifications, drawings, job sheets or work instructions
- 1.5 Select appropriate NC and CNC program elements for machine controller
2. Write basic NC and CNC machine program
- 2.1 Interpret engineering drawings to define basic machines, function and tool path geometry
- 2.2 Calculate coordinates for simple tool path or basic machining functions
- 2.3 Write program in standard code format in accordance with SOPs
- 2.4 Produce operation sheets to specification in accordance with SOPs
3. Trial program
- 3.1 Operate machine in manual mode to test and prove program
- 3.2 Edit program, if necessary, to adjust operation, as required
- 3.3 Check components for conformance to specification
Assessment Requirements
Performance Evidence
Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least two (2) occasions and include:
following work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safe work practices
identifying and interpreting specifications, charts, lists, drawings and other applicable reference documents in writing basic numerically controlled (NC) and computer numerically controlled (CNC) programs
calculating coordinates for tooling and producing operation sheets for the program and process
writing NC and CNC machine programs using standard code format
producing NC/CNC operation sheets
operating the machine to test it operates to specification undertaking any required editing of the program
checking parts or products for conformance to specifications.
Knowledge Evidence
Evidence required to demonstrate the required knowledge for this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:
safe work practices and procedures and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
elements of a basic NC and CNC program and the function of elements in controlling the operation of NC and CNC machine
machining operations
types of NC and CNC machines and their applications
machining operations controlled by program
tool paths to be followed when producing a part or product
sequence of machining operations and the reasons for selecting tool paths and sequence of operations
purpose of the zero point of the NC and CNC machine
standard codes and procedures for writing used in NC and CNC programs and their applications
procedures for completing NC and CNC operation sheets and the information to be included in NC and CNC operation sheets
procedures for manual operation of the NC and CNC machine
reasons for testing and proving the NC and CNC program
procedures for editing the NC and CNC program via the machine controller and the effects of editing on the operation of the NC and CNC machine and the part or product to be produced
measuring equipment/techniques used to check for conformance to specification.
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must:
have vocational competency in writing basic NC and CNC programs at least to the level being assessed with relevant industry knowledge and experience
satisfy the assessor requirements in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 or its replacement and comply with the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011, its replacement or equivalent legislation covering VET regulation in a non-referring state/territory as the case requires.
Assessment must include evidence of 160 hours of workplace practice associated with the skills of this unit in a functioning workplace.
All aspects of competent application of the unit must be addressed including prerequisite competency units and associated workplace performance, including environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Knowledge assessment may be either verbal or written but must adequately reflect the knowledge requirements of the unit and its prerequisites in a functioning workplace.
Conditions for assessment must include access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required, including relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Foundation Skills
- text: This section describes those required skills (reading, writing, oral communication and numeracy) that are essential to workplace performance in this unit of competency. Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Prerequisite Units
- {'code': 'MEM07015', 'title': 'Set computer controlled machines and processes'}
- {'code': 'MEM07016', 'title': 'Set and edit computer controlled machines and processes'}
- {'code': 'MEM09002', 'title': 'Interpret technical drawing'}
- {'code': 'MEM11011', 'title': 'Undertake manual handling'}
- {'code': 'MEM12023', 'title': 'Perform engineering measurements'}
- {'code': 'MEM12024', 'title': 'Perform computations'}
- {'code': 'MEM13015', 'title': 'Work safely and effectively in manufacturing and engineering'}
- {'code': 'MEM14006', 'title': 'Plan work activities'}
- {'code': 'MEM16006', 'title': 'Organise and communicate information'}
- {'code': 'MEM18001', 'title': 'Use hand tools'}
- {'code': 'MEM07005', 'title': 'Perform general machining'}
- {'code': 'MEM07028', 'title': 'Operate computer controlled machines and processes'}
Parent Qualifications
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MEM25011 — Install marine systems
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MEM18071 — Connect and disconnect fluid conveying system components
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MEM11010 — Operate mobile load shifting equipment
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Request Early AccessLast updated from training.gov.au: 25 February 2026