What does a Machinist do?
A Machinist translates the specifications of a shop’s clients into precision parts by determining how best to produce the required item and then manufacturing it accordingly. They decide which machines to use for each step, how to position or load the materials and what speed and batch size settings are necessary to achieve desired effects. Once manufacturing begins, they make modifications to variables like speed and temperature to ensure consistent performance. When a Machinist performs their job duties effectively, they can help to ensure that your machine shop produces high-quality parts that will perform optimally in instruments, tools and machines to benefit your internal or external clients.
Machinist skills and qualifications
To carry out Machinist job duties effectively, a candidate needs a set of key skills. Some qualifications to look for on Machinist resumes include:
- Familiarity with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) software and machinery used for computer-aided manufacturing
- Knowledge of how to operate grinders, lathes and milling machines
- Math skills to take precise measurements and make calculations
- Demonstrated oral and written communication skills
- Analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective manufacturing plans based on specifications
- Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues that arise during the manufacturing process
- Ability to move roughly 50 to 75 pounds and remain stationary throughout a shift
- Understanding of health and safety regulations to reduce the risk of workplace accidents
Machinist experience requirements
The level of experience candidates need to succeed in Machinist careers at your company depends on your business needs. If you have a high-volume machine shop or are currently understaffed, you may wish to focus on candidates with two or more years of previous Machinist work experience because they’re likely to require less training during the onboarding process. Experience may not be as crucial for success in shops that already have experienced Machinists on the team who can assist new hires.
Machinist education and training requirements
Generally, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum education required for Machinist careers. However, you may wish to look for candidates who have some post-secondary education. For Machinists, educational opportunities include apprenticeships and certificate and associate degree programs in precision machining. You may also want to prioritize candidates who hold one or more Machining certifications from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). To gain these certifications, a Machinist usually needs to have a minimum number of years of work experience and pass a written examination. Advanced training courses are also necessary for some NIMS certifications.
Machinist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Machinist is $60,493 per year. Actual annual salaries Machinists earn vary based on education, work experience, certification status and geographic location.
Job description samples for similar positions
If the Machinist job duties described above don’t fully meet the needs of your company, consider the following job descriptions:
Machinist job description FAQs
What is the difference between a Machinist and a Machine Operator?
Machine Operator is a general job title for anyone whose primary duty is to operate a machine. It includes Forklift Operators in warehouses and Heavy Equipment Operators on construction projects as well as Machine Operators in manufacturing facilities. In the manufacturing industry, a Machine Operator is usually responsible for running just one machine and following instructions provided by their Supervisor, while a Machinist develops a full manufacturing plan and uses more than one machine. More advanced knowledge of manufacturing is necessary to succeed as a Machinist.
What qualities make a good Machinist?
A good Machinist is typically a detail-oriented individual who enjoys complex tasks and solving problems. People who value teamwork often perform well in Machinist roles, as collaborating with coworkers is important to the success of a machine shop. In addition, a good Machinist can work under the pressure of deadlines and can maintain their focus and concentration even in chaotic, noisy environments.
How does the role of a Machinist vary based on client type?
Machinists may work directly for a manufacturer producing parts for internal clients, such as assemblers who will later fit parts together. These Machinists are likely to produce parts for similar types of equipment, tools or instruments every day. As a result, they may spend less time preparing manufacturing plans and more time monitoring the manufacturing process and proposing revisions to existing plans. Other Machinists work in machine shops that serve external clients, which may include numerous manufacturers. These Machinists will be responsible for coming up with new manufacturing plans more frequently and may require more training and experience to succeed in their role as a result.
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