CNC Machine Service & Repair

Service and repair CNC machines and machine tools

Startup Cost
$80,000-$400,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
10-18 months
Profit Potential
$21,000-$125,000/month

Overview

CNC service technicians generate $250,000-$1,500,000 annually with 50-75% margins.

In 2025, CNC downtime extremely costly for manufacturers.

Revenue from hourly service rates ($100-$200 per hour), preventive maintenance contracts ($500-$3,000 monthly), parts sales (40-60% margins), machine retrofits and upgrades, programming and training services, and emergency breakdown service.

Services include CNC machine troubleshooting and repair, control system diagnostics and repair, mechanical and electrical service, preventive maintenance programs, machine accuracy and calibration, and operator training.

Successful technicians provide fast response to minimize downtime, work on multiple CNC brands, maintain electronics and parts inventory, offer PM programs, and stay current with technology.

Machine shops and manufacturers as clients.

Marketing through machine tool dealers, manufacturers, machine shop networks, trade associations, and word-of-mouth.

Required Skills

  • CNC Machine Technology
  • Machine Tool Mechanics
  • Controls & Electronics
  • Diagnostics
  • Programming (G-code)
  • Precision Measurement

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Very high hourly service rates
  • CNC downtime expensive drives urgency
  • Specialized skills in high demand
  • PM contracts recurring revenue
  • Machine retrofits profitable projects

Cons

  • Need deep CNC and electronics expertise
  • Expensive diagnostic and repair tools
  • Continuous learning with technology
  • Competition from machine tool dealers
  • Emergency calls unpredictable hours

How to Get Started

  1. Build CNC machine service expertise
  2. Get training on major CNC control brands
  3. Invest in diagnostic tools and parts inventory
  4. Market to machine shops and manufacturers
  5. Provide troubleshooting and repair service
  6. Sell preventive maintenance contracts
  7. Stay current with CNC technology advances

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