Machinist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a machinist. Feel free to use our machinist job description template to produce your own machinist job description. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a machinist.
Who is a Machinist?
Some professionals or individuals can cut and shred materials into desirable sizes and shapes using controlled processes and removal techniques; they are called machinists and the process is referred to as machining. The art is mostly practiced by manufacturers during the production of metals and alloys of metals; nevertheless, machining has also been associated with the production of ceramics, plastics, composite materials, and wood. Machining is performed in an enclosed setting termed a “machine shop”. Due to technological and digital advancements, machining has evolved to include the use of software and computers to monitor and regulate the operation or procedure of mill, lathe, and cutting machines. This has been reported to be more cost-effective; labor expenditure is reduced or minimized, efficiency is enhanced, and accuracy is promoted. Importantly, some machines are employed in machining; these are called computer numerical control machines. They are fast, précised, flexible, productive, and beneficial to a machinist.
A machinist is an individual that works for corporations and firms to maintain equipment and guarantee continuous production and operation activities on a worksite. They are manufacturing experts with the ability, skills, training, and knowledge to set up mechanical tools, and operate computer-aided or controlled machines to manufacture metals and metallic products. Examples of machines operated by a machinist include milling machines, lathes, or grinders. They possess technical abilities and knowledge on how to decipher tools and materials essential for setting up machines. Relatively, these experts can fix broken machines, repair faulty machinery, and produce parts to replace damaged machines. Using blueprints, designs, and outlines, a machinist can build the original components of the machine. They apply their knowledge of mechanical aptitude to use measuring instruments for precision correctly. Also, they utilize their understanding of accurate speeds and feeds to combine and select the right materials and tools for machining processes. Importantly, a machinist can begin his or her career from an entry-level position and climb the ladder with years of experience and regular training. The evolving nature of the field and technology means that a machinist is constantly going to courses and learning to keep up with the trends and industry-based innovations. This helps them to develop expert knowledge of the properties, elements, features, characteristics, and rudiments of such machines. In turn, it makes operations easier and faster.
Furthermore, a machinist manufactures different types of metallic equipment including motorcycle frame parts, an internal structure in a combustion motor, and components of the engine of a submarine for example. Similarly, a machining expert calibrates, manufactures, and installs mass-produced components and structures of a machine. Modification and adjustment are also synonymous with a machinist; they use machines or manual labor to adjust, modify, or transform metallic, wood, or plastic parts. While working to operate mechanical instruments and repair several equipment, they reassemble and disassemble components of the machine. Significantly, most machinists undertake training and courses to develop the ability to write programs for computer numerical control machines.
Machinist Job Description
Machinists utilize tools to create automobile pistons, steel bolts, hydraulic components, anti-lock brakes, and titanium bone screws. They also produce pieces and parts for orthopaedic implantations. The role of a machinist also involves the creation of small batches of products or a large number of specific items. They read and use schematics, blueprints, software, and manuals when working. A machinist performs other essential duties while monitoring the feed and speed of machines. The major duties, functions, and responsibilities of a machinist are enumerated below;
- Protect, secure, and regulate workpieces and align cutting tools.
- Utilize several types of equipment or machines such as lathes and mills for shaping, drilling, turning, milling, and grinding of parts of a machine.
- Use specified dimensions and finishes while working and polish the surface of a product.
- Present and deliver finished metallic products to clients.
- Adjust or modify finished items where applicable.
- Comprehend the specifications of a product by reviewing drawings, samples, and instructions.
- Arrange and organize the sequence of actions to complete a task effectively.
- Measure and mark materials for turning, shaping or cutting.
- Choose the correct machine and load or position materials to complete a task.
- Adhere to the organization or industry-based health and safety guidelines and principles.
- Observe tools and machines to ensure that feeds are adjusted, the temperature is maintained, and issues are identified.
- Stick to technical data, instructions, and manuals while working.
- Monitor the output of production to make sure defects are discarded and consistency is maintained.
- Maintain and oversee equipment individually or collectively.
- Record approved units of the final products and document defects.
- Inspect fabricated parts visually and mechanically to meet company and customer requirements and specifications.
- Perform dimensional and mechanical testing as needed and rework components as required.
- Manufacture tools for precision.
- Maintain, oversee, and operate industrial machines.
Qualifications
Large corporations and industries hire machinists to utilize equipment and machinery and develop special parts. Machinists create spare parts using computer-assisted machines. Usually, production occurs in large quantities and can be measured using appropriate techniques. In relation, a machinist also replaces parts of a broken machine among others. To successfully navigate through the process of machining, several qualifications are needed. An individual must be conversant with computers and technology to thrive in the position for example. Therefore, an individual must possess the following qualifications to be employed as a machinist;
- Education: Unlike most professions that require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, an individual can fulfill the education requirements for a machinist by starting and completing high school. In some corporations and climes, employers accept or prefer candidates with vocational training and/or an apprenticeship. While in secondary school, concentrate on metalwork, blueprint reading, drawings, and mathematics. They are essential in building skills and expertise for the role.
- Training: A machinist can be trained in several ways. First, vocational and technical institutes provide adequate theoretical and practical training for machinists. Also, an apprenticeship in a manufacturing firm or machine shop can provide adequate on-the-job training for an aspiring machinist. The apprenticeship can be paid or unpaid.
- Machinist certification: Having an industry-based or industry-related certification is a bonus for an aspiring machinist. Since the career is skilled-centered, learning the basic machinist skills through certification courses makes an individual a more competitive and employable candidate. Additionally, there are certifying bodies and boards in different parts of the world. For example, the skills certification system offers courses that merge education and skills. In relation, an individual can obtain the journey-level certification after completing a vocational course.
- Experience: Experience in handling automated, semi-automated, and manual tools in a workshop is an added advantage. Employers consider applicants with relative experience in operating machining machines and equipment. However, a minimum of one year of theoretical and practical experience as an assistant or trainee machinist in a relevant setting is mandatory. Often, evidence and proof of work experience is required when applying for roles.
- Knowledge and proficiency: Knowledge is necessary for an aspiring machinist. Hiring managers prefer candidates with demonstrable knowledge of metals and their properties, equipment, and other tools. The preferred candidate must how proficiency in reading and analyzing schematics, blueprints, and manuals. An individual must be physically fit to be considered; this is because, machining requires heavy lifting and movement sometimes.
Essential Skills
Arguably, machining skills are the major elements for success in the role. Whether a machinist is replacing parts, repairing machines, performing metalwork, or reading blueprints or schematics, certain skills are needed. Operating computer-assisted machines and other processes also requires core skills. Most of the essential skills for a machinist can be learned while in school or during vocational and technical training. An internship or apprenticeship can aid the machinist to develop and harness other relevant skills. Thus, a machinist needs the following skills to work efficiently;
- Technical skills: Sometimes, the work of a machinist involves technicalities and trifles; hence, they need technical skills. Relatively, operating computers and using the software requires specialized skills as well. Examples of technical skills include technical writing, the ability to program computer numerical control, computer-aided manufacturing expertise, the ability to model and simulate, and geometric dimension and tolerance.
- Accuracy and manual dexterity: A machinist must always prioritize small details while working. Also, measurement and other functions require accuracy. He or she must also be agile to effectively coordinate and create parts. Accuracy and manual dexterity are also essential for following designs and schematics to the last millimeter.
- Analytical skills: A machinist must be able to analyze and decipher blueprints promptly. To efficiently develop components or craft products, they must have excellent analytical skills to comprehend and understand models, terms, and blueprints.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities enable a machinist to come up with solutions when needed. Things might go wrong sometimes; problem-solving enables the machinist to proffer urgent remedies to minimize damage. Also, these skills help the machinist to forecast possible problems that may be encountered and prevent them accordingly.
- Mechanical skills: Mechanical skills and expertise entail the ability to operate several types of equipment and machinery on the worksite. Several machines and tools are used in a machine shop including a grinder, lathe, water and laser cutting machine, milling machine, and a wire electrical discharge machine. Mechanical skills help the machinists to utilize and operate these machines more efficiently.
- Knowledge of mathematics: The machinist needs mathematical skills for efficacy and accuracy. To successfully use applications, software, and measuring machines, a machinist must be adept in mathematics.
How to Become a Machinist
This section of the article will provide a guide on how to begin a career in machining. Undoubtedly, beginning a career as a machinist is not as easy as it seems; an individual must pass through various steps to become on. From education to training, certification, and experience, they must overcome obstacles to become experts in the field. Therefore, the steps to becoming a machinist include;
- Decide if a career in machining suits your career goals: The first thing to consider when starting a career is it’s suitability to your career goals and aspirations. Research the job description of a machinist, peruse the roles and responsibilities, and decide if a machinist career is a right fit for you.
- Get a secondary school certificate: The minimum formal educational qualification for a machinist is a secondary school diploma. Subjects such as geometry, technical drawing, mathematics, and blueprint reading are essential; they provide the requisite knowledge and skills for success on the job. Other relevant subjects include physics, calculus, metalwork, and drafting. Proficiency in computers is another area that must be focused on.
- Study vocational and technical courses: After secondary school, apply for courses in a vocational and training institute to hone more skills and develop expertise. There are several colleges in communities across the world that offers these courses. Skills that can be acquired in vocational schools are blueprint and design reading skills, the ability to use computer-aided designs, computer numerical control skills, computer-aided manufacturing skills, and the ability to manipulate welding tools.
- Undertake training in a relevant company: Training is essential for a machinist; thus, apply to institutes to be trained on several machining processes and procedures. Though you might benefit from on-the-job training in some firms, it is vital to enroll for apprenticeship programs to get used to the processes, best practices, and principles of machining.
- Obtain certification: Being certified is an important step in becoming a machinist. A certification in machining or related industries offers opportunities for skills acquisition and capacity building. Also, it makes you a better and more attractive candidate to hiring managers and boosts your job profile. Several certification bodies and associations exist for machinists; these include the international metalworking skills institute and the manufacturing institute.
Where to Work as a Machinist
A machinist can work in different organizations and different settings. Although most machinists work in a machine shop, others find jobs and employment in manufacturing companies that produce metals and other types of machinery. Other machinists can be employed by transportation companies. A machinist can also work for aircraft and aerospace firms, automobile enterprises, and engineering firms.
Machinist Salary Scale
A machinist earns an estimated total income of $65,143 per annum. A breakdown of the salary showed that additional pay amounts to $21,428 while the average salary is estimated to be $43,715. Profit-sharing, commission pay, tips, and cash bonuses make up the additional pay. Other benefits attached to the role of a machinist include hazard allowance, health insurance, and paid holidays.