Job description
Machinists create, modify and repair metal parts, instruments and tools such as hydraulic parts, antilock brakes and automobile pistons. They produce these items by reading blueprints and sketches and by operating computer-controlled and mechanically controlled machine tools. Machinists are responsible for monitoring the feed and speed of machines, ensuring parts meet specifications and testing completed products for defects.
Duties
- Create, modify and repair metal parts, instruments and tools
- Read and follow blueprints and sketches to produce items
- Refer to computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) files
- Operate mechanically controlled and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools
- Drill, shape, align, smooth, secure and grind machine parts
- Observe the feed and speed of machines
- Evaluate and test products for defects
- Present completed items to customers
Skills, qualities and knowledge
Working hours and environment
Average working hours
40hweek
Typical schedule
Full Time
Some evenings and weekends
Machinists are typically based in product manufacturing plants. This role involves working around noisy machinery that can sometimes be hazardous. Machinists must, therefore, follow precautions to avoid injuries, such as wearing protective gear. This includes safety glasses to stay protected from flying pieces of metal, earplugs to diminish machinery noise and masks to prevent exposure to fumes.
Salary
Bottom 10%
$27k
Median
$44k
Top 10%
$65k
Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.
Qualifications and training
Education level
High school
DVM / VMD degree
Study time
12months
Entry requirements for machinists usually include a high school diploma or equivalent. However, employment opportunities are increased for those who have participated in apprenticeship programmes at a community college or technical school.
Training for this position is provided on the job and can take up to a year. Aspiring machinists should also be experienced in using the required CAD/CAM technology and CNC machine tools.
While not required, machinists can complete a certification programme at institutions to enhance job opportunities.
Job outlook
Projected growth
3%
No of new jobs
9.9k
Automation risk
65%
Career progression
Some machinists choose to change paths and become tool and die makers. With enough experience, skills and knowledge, these professionals may also advance their prospects and embark on careers in inspection, quality control or production planning.