A Day In The Life
Manufacturing Industry
Manufacturing
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments.
Manufacturing Industry
Machinists
Average
$39,000
ANNUAL
Entry Level
$23,000
ANNUAL
Mid Level
$40,000
ANNUAL
Expert Level
$57,000
ANNUAL
Machinists
20,060
Projected job openings through 2028
Machinists
Job Titles
Entry Level
JOB TITLE
Helper
Mid Level
JOB TITLE
Assistant
Expert Level
JOB TITLE
Senior Machinist
Degree Recommendations
Machinists
01
Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
02
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
03
Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
04
Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
05
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
06
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
07
Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
08
Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
09
Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
10
Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
Machinists
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Mathematics
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
KNOWLEDGE
Production and Processing
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
KNOWLEDGE
Design
SKILL
Operation Monitoring
SKILL
Critical Thinking
SKILL
Operation and Control
SKILL
Reading Comprehension
SKILL
Active Listening
ABILITY
Arm-Hand Steadiness
ABILITY
Manual Dexterity
ABILITY
Finger Dexterity
ABILITY
Control Precision
ABILITY
Near Vision
Manufacturing
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