MANUFACTURING & PRODUCTION
BECOME A
Machinist
"Precision is not just about measurement; it’s about mastery."
— Henry Ford
Program Start:
Coming Soon
Program Duration:
TBA
PAY SNAPSHOT
2023 Median National Annual Pay
$50,840
2023 Top Decile National Annual Pay
$75,820
6 Month Advertised Salary Growth
9%
12 Month Advertised Salary Growth
6%
What Is A Machinist?
A Machinist crafts and repairs precise metal parts for tools, machinery, and appliances using blueprints or original designs. They operate machine tools such as lathes, mills, and grinders, ensuring accuracy and precision in metal fabrication. Machinists work in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries, often creating custom components or prototypes. They measure, cut, and shape metal to exact specifications, inspect finished pieces for defects, and maintain equipment for optimal performance. Machinists also read technical drawings, adjust machinery for efficiency, and ensure products meet industry standards through rigorous quality control processes.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for machinists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
How Do I Become A Machinist?
Becoming a Machinist requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and technical skill. These can typically be acquired through a trade school or vocational program, community college, or 4-year university, depending on the breadth of knowledge and experience required. A short curriculum may read as follows:
Machining Fundamentals & Safety
Students learn machining principles, tool operation, and industry safety standards. Training covers OSHA regulations, PPE usage, and accident prevention in machine shops.
CNC Programming & Operation
Technicians master computer numerical control (CNC) machining. Training includes G-code programming, tool path creation, and CAD/CAM software for automated manufacturing.
Blueprint Reading & Precision Measurement
Training includes interpreting technical drawings, geometric dimensioning, and tolerancing. Students develop skills in using calipers, micrometers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM).
Manual Machining (Lathe & Milling)
Students learn to operate lathes and milling machines for cutting, drilling, and shaping materials. Training covers feeds, speeds, and workholding techniques for precision machining.
Materials & Metallurgy
Students study material properties, heat treatment, and metalworking techniques. Training includes selecting and processing metals for optimal machining performance.
Certification & Career Advancement
Students prepare for NIMS certification and develop skills for career growth. Training covers machine maintenance, quality control, and pathways to toolmaking, engineering, and production management.
Students learn machining principles, tool operation, and industry safety standards. Training covers OSHA regulations, PPE usage, and accident prevention in machine shops.
Training includes interpreting technical drawings, geometric dimensioning, and tolerancing. Students develop skills in using calipers, micrometers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM).
Students learn to operate lathes and milling machines for cutting, drilling, and shaping materials. Training covers feeds, speeds, and workholding techniques for precision machining.
Technicians master computer numerical control (CNC) machining. Training includes G-code programming, tool path creation, and CAD/CAM software for automated manufacturing.
Students study material properties, heat treatment, and metalworking techniques. Training includes selecting and processing metals for optimal machining performance.
Students prepare for NIMS certification and develop skills for career growth. Training covers machine maintenance, quality control, and pathways to toolmaking, engineering, and production management.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for machinists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
$57,260
Transportation equipment manufacturing
$51,630
Wholesale trade
$50,620
Machinery manufacturing
$48,860
Fabricated metal product manufacturing
$37,270
Employment services
What Skills Are Important?
Machinist
Machining
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
2,113
Machining is the process uses tools and machines to shape materials into precise sizes. Machinists read technical drawings, work in industries like aerospace and automotive, and use precision instruments and software to create customized parts.
Lathes
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,760
Lathes are machines used to shape materials into cylinders or cones by rotating them against cutting tools. This skill requires precision, tool selection, and cutting expertise. Common in aerospace, automotive, and medical manufacturing, lathe operators are in demand.
Operations
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,579
Operations is fundamental skill that involves managing resources, processes, people, and technology to ensure efficient daily business activities. Strong skills in this area are vital for meeting objectives, satisfying customers, and staying competitive.
Milling
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,498
Milling involves operating machines to shape materials with precision. It requires knowledge of tools, clamping, and controls, plus skills in interpreting blueprints and using various techniques to achieve accurate results.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,489
CNC is a manufacturing skill using computer programs to control machines like lathes and mills for precise parts. Operators need programming, blueprint reading, and problem-solving skills to boost accuracy, efficiency, and productivity.
How Are Job Postings Trending?
Machinist
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Machinist
Administrative and Support Services
3,162
Postings
62%
Change from last year
Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
886
Postings
65%
Change from last year
Machinery Manufacturing
666
Postings
11%
Change from last year
Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
581
Postings
46%
Change from last year
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
412
Postings
45%
Change from last year
Publishing Industries
328
Postings
4000%
Change from last year
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
322
Postings
29%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods
201
Postings
36%
Change from last year
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing
184
Postings
8%
Change from last year
Miscellaneous Manufacturing
173
Postings
31%
Change from last year
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Machinist
Top Companies
Where Are The Top Companies Hiring?
Machinist
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