Machinist
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This page provides an overview of the Machinist profession, including typical job responsibilities, required skills, and educational pathways.
Please note that this is not a job posting, but rather an informational guide to help you understand what a career in Machinist entails
What Does A Machinist Do
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
Other Job Titles
CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist), Gear Machinist, Machine Repair Person, Machinist, Maintenance Machinist, Manual Lathe Machinist, Production Machinist, Tool Room Machinist
Job Tasks
- Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
- Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
- Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
- Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
- Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
Annual Salary
- Workers on average earn $26.09/hr. $54,270 annually.
- Projected Growth (2019-2029)- Average (3% to 4%)
- Projected Job Openings (2019-2029)- 38,000
Required Education
High School/Equivalency, Post-secondary certificate, Associate’s Degree
Resources
The Occupational Information Network is a free online database that contains hundreds of occupational definitions to help students.
Learn More >>The Occupational Outlook Handbook is the government’s premier source of career guidance featuring hundreds of occupations.
Learn More >>My Next Move is an interactive tool for job seekers and students to learn more about their career options.
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