Machinists
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.
At a Glance
Machinists earns a median of $56,150/yr with +0.0% projected growth. Typical entry: High school diploma or equivalent. Top skills: Controlling Machines and Processes, SAP software, Microsoft Word.
$56,150/yr
0.0%
30
High school diploma or equivalent
Skills & Requirements
Skills (1)
Knowledge (3)
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Abilities (8)
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Technology (10)
Category: Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
Work Activities (17)
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Careers with Overlapping Skills
These occupations share the most skills. A career transition between them means many of your skills transfer directly.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
Production · 205 shared skills
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
Production · 200 shared skills
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Architecture and Engineering · 199 shared skills
Automotive Engineers
Architecture and Engineering · 195 shared skills
Manufacturing Engineers
Architecture and Engineering · 195 shared skills
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Architecture and Engineering · 195 shared skills
Mechanical Engineers
Architecture and Engineering · 194 shared skills
Tool and Die Makers
Production · 194 shared skills
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