Toolmaker
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling technology is widely used in modern manufacturing industries to produce precision components and tooling systems. CNC milling machines allow manufacturers to produce complex parts with high accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
The CNC Milling Machinist Part Qualification forms part of the broader Toolmaker Occupational Qualification and provides learners with the specialised skills required to perform CNC milling operations in engineering and manufacturing environments.
The programme equips learners with the knowledge and practical competencies required to interpret engineering drawings, plan machining operations, set up CNC milling machines, and produce precision machined components according to specified measurements and quality standards.
Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will be able to implement measurement, materials, and safety requirements and conduct CNC milling programming, machine setting, and milling operations within a production environment.
This qualification supports the development of skilled manufacturing technicians required by industries such as automotive manufacturing, precision engineering, metal fabrication, and industrial production.
This course is presented in partnership with CNC Academy (An accredited CNC institution with QCTO).
Standard Entry Requirements
To enrol in this part qualification, learners must meet one of the following requirements:
NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics and Science
OR
N3 Engineering Studies with Mathematics and Engineering Science
These requirements ensure learners have the necessary mathematical and technical foundation for machining and engineering training.
Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners will be able to:
Apply measurement, materials, and safety (MMS) requirements in machining environments
Interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
Plan and conduct benchwork and layout activities for machining operations
Program CNC milling machines to produce specified components
Set up CNC milling machines for production operations
Perform CNC milling operations in accordance with machining specifications
Monitor machining processes to ensure quality and accuracy
Maintain safe working practices during machining operations
This part qualification consists of Knowledge Modules, Practical Skill Modules, and Work Experience Modules that develop both theoretical knowledge and technical machining skills.
Knowledge Modules (36 Credits)
The knowledge modules provide the theoretical foundation required for CNC machining operations.
Modules include:
1. Introduction to Measurement, Machining and Safety
2. Principles and Concepts of Engineering Drawings
3. Introduction to Project Management
4. Basic Principles of Project Management
5. CNC Milling Theory
These modules provide learners with essential engineering principles, safety procedures, and machining theory required to perform CNC milling tasks.
Practical Skill Modules (57 Credits)
The practical modules focus on developing hands-on machining competencies required for CNC milling operations.
Key practical modules include:
1. Implementing Measurement, Materials and Safety (MMS) requirements
2. Planning and conducting benchwork and layout activities
3. Performing basic CNC milling operations
4. Performing advanced CNC milling operations
These modules allow learners to develop practical machining skills through supervised training in workshop environments.
Work Experience Modules (55 Credits)
Workplace experience forms an important part of this qualification and allows learners to gain practical exposure to real manufacturing environments.
Workplace learning includes:
1. Workplace orientation and job planning
2. Milling machine operations
3. CNC milling machine operations
This component ensures that learners develop the practical competence required to perform CNC milling tasks within a production environment.
This qualification provides a strong foundation for entering the manufacturing and machining industry, while also creating clear opportunities for further growth and specialisation.
After completing this programme, learners can begin working in entry-level machining roles and continue building their experience in production environments.
For those who wish to develop further, there are structured progression pathways:
Horizontal Progression (Expanding Your Skills at the Same Level)
You can broaden your machining capability by moving into related fields such as:
CNC Turning Machinist (NQF Level 4, 104 Credits)
This allows you to work with different machines and processes, increasing your versatility and employability.
Vertical Progression (Advancing to Higher-Level Skills)
You can also progress into more advanced and specialised roles in the industry, such as:
EDM Wire Operator (NQF Level 5, 98 Credits)
EDM Plunge Operator (NQF Level 5, 98 Credits)
These roles involve working with advanced machining technologies and can lead to higher-level responsibilities and improved career prospects.
Learners will be assessed through a combination of continuous assessments, practical demonstrations, and workplace-based evaluations.
Continuous Assessment
Continuous assessments may include:
Written tests and assignments
Practical machining exercises
Workshop-based demonstrations
Portfolio of evidence
Integrated External Assessment
After successfully completing all modules, learners may undergo an External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) conducted through accredited assessment centres under the supervision of the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB).
The assessment evaluates the learner's ability to:
Plan and prepare machining operations
Interpret engineering drawings
Program CNC milling machines
Set up and operate CNC milling machines
Produce components that meet engineering specifications
Successful learners will receive certification for the CNC Milling Machinist Part Qualification (NQF Level 4, 148 Credits).
2026 Fee Structure
Fee Type
Amount (ZAR)
Notes
Full Course Fee
R65,000.00
Once-off payment
Installments
R 6 500.00
P/M over 10 months
Additional Fee
EISA Exam (Trade Test)
R + 3 000.00
Dependent on the trade test centre
Optional Cost
Trade test preparation
R + 5 000.00
2 weeks- Dependent on the trade test centre
Note: The application fee is non-refundable. Course fees become non-refundable once training has commenced and the learner has received access to learning materials, training resources, workshop sessions, or programme support. The EISA Exam/Trade Test fee and Trade Test Preparation fee are separate from the course fee and may vary depending on the approved trade test centre. Installment arrangements must be approved before the programme starts and must be paid according to the agreed payment schedule.
1. What jobs can I get after this course?
Different roles in machining and manufacturing, with growth into specialised positions.
2. Can I study further after this?
Yes. You can progress into CNC Turning or advanced machining at higher NQF levels.
3. Is the course practical?
Yes. It focuses on hands-on skills with supporting theory.
4. Do I need experience?
No. It is designed for beginners and those entering the field.
5. Will this improve my job opportunities?
Yes. It builds industry-relevant skills that are in demand.