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What does a Manufacturing Machinist do?
What does a Manufacturing Machinist do?
Operates 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.
WAGES AND EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS
$55,000/yr
$55,000/yr
Average Annual Wage for Manufacturing Machinist in the U.S.
36,000
36,000
Annual Projected Job Openings
Average demand and outlook
are you a good fit to be Machinist ?
are you a good fit to be Machinist ?
People starting in this career usually have:
High school diploma or equivalent
No work experience
More than 1 year on-the-job training
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving
sKILLS & Day to day Activities
sKILLS & Day to day Activities
sKILLS
sKILLS
Blueprint Reading: Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
Machine Operation: Proficiency in operating various machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, and grinders.
CNC Programming: Knowledge of computer numerical control (CNC) programming and operation.
Precision Measurement: Use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
Mathematics: Strong understanding of math, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
CAD/CAM Software: Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software.
Metallurgy: Basic understanding of different metals and their properties.
Day to day activities
Day to day activities
Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
Operate cutting equipment.
Operate grinding equipment.
Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Maintain production or processing equipment.
Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.
Prepare fabrics or materials for processing or production.
PROS AND CONS OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATING
PROS
Job Stability:
Skilled machinists are in high demand across various industries, offering good job security and opportunities for long-term employment.
Good Pay:
Machinists can earn a competitive salary, especially with experience and specialized skills in CNC programming and advanced machining techniques.
Hands-On Work:
For those who enjoy working with their hands and creating tangible products, machining offers a satisfying and rewarding career.
Variety of Work:
Machinists often work on diverse projects, which keeps the job interesting and allows for the development of a broad skill set.
Technological Advancement:
The field of machining constantly evolves with new technologies and techniques, providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.
Career Advancement:
With experience, machinists can move into supervisory or managerial roles, or specialize in areas like CNC programming, quality control, or machine maintenance.
Sense of Accomplishment:
Machinists can take pride in producing high-quality parts that are essential to various products and industries
CONS
Physical Demands:
The job can be physically demanding, requiring long periods of standing, lifting heavy materials, and performing repetitive tasks.
Work Environment:
Machine shops can be noisy, dirty, and may involve exposure to coolants and other chemicals. Proper safety measures and protective gear are necessary.
Precision Required:
The work requires a high level of precision and attention to detail. Mistakes can be costly, requiring rework or scrapping of parts.
Stress and Pressure:
Meeting tight deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards can be stressful. Machinists must work efficiently while avoiding errors.
Injury Risk:
Working with powerful machinery poses a risk of injury if safety protocols are not followed. Common risks include cuts, burns, and repetitive strain injuries.
Initial Training and Education:
Becoming a skilled machinist often requires significant training and education, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Shift Work:
Some machinists may need to work evening, night, or weekend shifts, which can disrupt work-life balance and personal schedules.
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