Machinists set up, operate, and service machine tools. Machine tools are large, power-driven machines that drill, grind, turn, mill, shear, or shape metal.  

NATURE OF THE OCCUPATION       

Machinists may:  

Study blueprints, sketches, and other specifications  

Assemble parts to make lathes, milling machines, shapers, grinders or other machines  

Verify dimensions, alignment, and conformity of workpieces  

Test machines to find malfunctions  

Manufacture repair parts from blank castings or bar stock  

Use machine and hand tools to set up, repair, and adjust metal-working machines  

Tools and equipment used may include:  

Machinists work with a variety of metals, plastics, and other materials.  

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES       

Machinists may specialize in these areas:  

600.280-022 MACHINISTS set up, operate, and service machine tools.  

600.280-042 MAINTENANCE MACHINISTS set up and operate various machine tools, assemble parts to make or repair machine tools, and maintain industrial machines.  

600.280-034 AUTOMOTIVE MACHINISTS set up and operate a variety of metalworking machines to repair automotive engine parts and auxiliary parts, such as transmissions, springs, or brakes.  

600.380-010 FIXTURE MAKERS machine workpieces and other parts to make fixtures that hold parts for automatic machines used in production.  

600.260-022 EXPERIMENTAL MACHINISTS make tools, mechanisms, and machines for experimental purposes. They work closely with engineers in translating designs and ideas to meet special engineering needs.  

600.280-042 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT MACHINISTS maintain industrial machines in the construction industry.  

Other Machinists set up and operate a variety of metalworking machines to make all the parts needed to build a product model (prototype). These Machinists may have specific titles, according to the industry in which they work. Computer numeric control machinists set up and tend computerized machines that perform their operations automatically.  

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may find it helpful to explore the following MOIScripts:  

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS    

Machinists generally work in shops that are well heated, ventilated, free from dust, and properly lighted. Grease, oil, and coolants are frequently in and around machine tools. Many work in shops that are also noisy. Machinists risk injuries from such hazards as flying metal chips, abrasive dust, sharp cutting tools, high-speed moving parts and rough metal edges. Risk is greatly reduced by wearing protective clothing and following safety rules.  

Most Machinists work 40 hours a week, 8 hours a day. They may work any of three shifts. Some Machinists work overtime to meet production deadlines or make emergency repairs.  

Some Machinists have to provide their own hand tools. Tools may cost up to $2,000, depending on the quality and quantity purchased.  

Some Machinists are members of unions such as The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; and The United Steel workers of America. Machinists who belong to unions pay dues.  

You Should Prefer:  

• Activities involving the use of machines, processes, & methods  

• Activities dealing with things & objects  

• Activities which bring personal satisfaction  

You Should Be Able To:  

• Evaluate parts machined against blueprint specifications  

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy  

• Look at flat drawings or sketches  

• Understand how sketches would look as solid objects  

• Work easily & skillfully with your hands  

• See details in objects or drawings  

• Recognize slight differences in shapes or shadings  

• Perform a variety of duties which may change often  

• Communicate well orally and in writing  

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:  

A 3/4 inch hole is to be drilled in a piece of aluminum with a cutting speed of 250 ft./min. Calculate the correct rpm.  

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:  

Correct feeding pressures result in uniform spiral chips forming outward from the hole. Too heavy a feed rate may chip the cutting lips. Feed rates that are too light cause a squeaking or chattering noise and quickly dull the cutting lip.  

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:  

Prepare an order form for specific maintenance tools necessary for a repair job.  

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:  

Analytical skills and be detail oriented in assessing blueprints and operating machine equipment.  

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES    

NOTE: A person may qualify for this occupation through: (a) on the job training, (b) completion of a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education classes, (c) completion of a community college Certificate program or Associate Degree, or (d) an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school).  

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the MOIScript:  

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***  

0700 CAREERS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 2200 MATH , 2300 METALS , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY  

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION***  

049 MACHINE TOOL OPERATION/SHOP  

Approved vocational education programs in Machine Tool Operation and Machine Shop prepare students to shape metal parts on machines such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, milling machines, and shapers. Programs may also train individuals in the use of one machine. Instruction is given in calculating dimensions; using precision measuring instruments such as layout tools, micrometers, and gages; machining and heat-treating various metals; and in laying out machine parts. Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.  

056 ELECTRO-MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY  

Approved vocational education programs in Electro-Mechanical Technology train students in electronics, communications, electricity, automation maintenance, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Students are allowed to select courses from more than one area of study. The 2 phase program teaches foundation skills as well as a common set of electro-mechanical skills that are generic to all like occupations. Courses in other trade & industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.  

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.  

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***  

098 MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY  

Programs in Mechanical Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the design, manufacture, testing, operation, and maintenance of devices, tools, and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Mechanical Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.  

Courses will vary from school to school but may include:  

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program  

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***  

025 MACHINIST  

Many people enter occupations within this MOIScript through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.  

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB  

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM  

 ***MILITARY TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES***    

Please check Military website at  http://www.myfuture.com .  

Sometimes when engines or machines break down, the parts needed to repair them are not available. In these cases, the broken parts must be repaired or new ones made. Machinists make and repair metal parts for engines and all types of machines. They operate lathes, drill presses, grinders, and other machine shop equipment.  

What They Do  

Machinists in the military perform some or all of the following duties:  

• Study blueprints or written plans of the parts to be made  

• Set up and operate lathes to make parts such as shafts and gears  

• Cut metal stock using power hacksaws and bandsaws  

• Bore holes using drill presses  

• Shape and smooth parts using grinders  

• Measure work using micrometers, calipers, and depth gauges  

Helpful Attributes  

Helpful school subjects include math, general science, metal working, and mechanical drawing. Helpful attributes include:  

• Preference for working with the hands  

• Interest in making things and finding solutions to mechanical problems  

• Ability to apply mathematical formulas  

Work Environment  

Machinists work in machine shops, which are often noisy.  

Training Provided  

Job training consists of 10 to 12 weeks of classroom instruction, including practice in machine operation. Course content typically includes:  

• Machine types and uses  

• Machine setup and operation  

• Uses of different metals  

• Safety procedures  

Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The Army and Navy offer certified apprenticeship programs for this occupation.  

Civilian Counterparts  

Civilian machinists work for factories and repair shops in many industries, including the electrical product, automotive, and heavy machinery industries. They perform duties similar to military machinists.  

Opportunities  

The services have about 1,500 machinists. On average, they need about 150 new machinists each year. After job training, machinists perform routine repairs under close supervision. In time, they perform more difficult repairs and may train others. Eventually, they may become managers of one or more machine shops.    

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY    

Secondary vocational education programs in machine tool operation/shop programs, as well as community college mechanical technology programs, may offer co-op or work experience opportunities. Summer jobs, training in military service, and formal apprenticeships offer opportunities for experience in this occupation also.  

School-to-Work opportunities include:  

informal apprenticeships  

mentorships  

job shadowing experiences  

touring a local Machinist employer  

internships  

volunteer work with a Machinist employer  

community service work with an agency  

Application to employers and completion of an apprenticeship are common methods of entry. Local unions, school placement offices, or a local office of Michigan Works! can provide assistance in locating a job. Newspaper want ads may also be helpful. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:  

Michigan Talent Bank ( http://www.michworks.org/mtb/user/MTB_EMPL.EntryMainPage ) 

America's Job Bank ( http://www.ajb.dni.us ) 

Classifieds Employment ( http://www.classifieds2000.com )

Yahoo! Careers ( http://careers.yahoo.com/ ) 

MONSTER.COM  ( http://www.monster.com )  

Michigan Works! ( http://www.michiganworks.org )  

Michigan Dept. of Career Development ( http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd/ )

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.  

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT    

Earnings of Machinists vary depending on the industry, individual levels of skill, geographic area, and union affiliation.  

Nationally, Machinists had median weekly earnings of about $671 in 2001 or $16.78 per hour. The median hourly earnings of  "all" workers in the U.S. were $14.92 in 2001.  

In early 2002, the average wage for Machinists in Michigan was about $17.58 per hour.  

Wages for most Machinists in the auto industry (2002) ranged from about $26.68 to $26.90 per hour. They also received a cost-of-living allowance.  

Hourly wages (early 2002) of Machinists working for several governmental units were:  

The 2000 graduates of high school vocational education programs in Michigan working in jobs related to Machinist earned an average entry wage of $10.16 per hour in 2001.  

Apprentices' starting pay rates are usually 50% to 78% of qualified Machinist rates.  

Benefits may include health and life insurance, hand tools, safety shoes and glasses, paid vacations and holidays, retirement plans, and supplemental unemployment benefits. Some workers receive dental and/or optical benefits.  

A Machinist may advance to tool and die maker or supervisor, depending on seniority, experience, and training. With additional training and education, a Machinist may move up to the position of computer numeric control machinist/programmer.  

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK    

Nationally, employment of Machinists was about 423,500 in 2000. Employment of Machinists is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Some openings are expected as workers retire or transfer to other lines of work. Additionally, about 1.4% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Machinist looked like this:  

Employment of Machinists fluctuates with economic conditions. While growth in demand for products that use machined metal parts will increase the need for Machinists, employment growth will be limited by the growing substitution of nonmetal parts in many products, increasing foreign competition and improvements in metalworking technology. The chief improvement is the growing use of computer-controlled machine tools. However, skilled Maintenance Machinists will be needed to prevent costly breakdowns in highly automated plants.    

There were about 25,050 Machinists employed in Michigan. Machinists were employed by manufacturing plants, machine shops, railroads, public utilities and shipyards. Employment of Machinists in Michigan is expected to grow about as fast as   the average for all occupations through the year 2008. An average of 710 openings is expected annually, with 210 due to growth and 500 due to replacement of workers who retire or leave the labor force for other reasons. Additional openings will occur as workers change jobs or occupations. In late 2001, there were 360 apprentices in training for this occupation, and 45 completed the apprentice program during the prior 12 months.  

Growth will occur in the maintenance shops of manufacturing plants as industries continue to use a greater volume of complex machinery and equipment. Also, employment of Machinists involved in plant maintenance is usually relatively less sensitive to downturns in the economy because proper maintenance and repair of costly equipment are still important even when production levels fall.  

MICHIGAN'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2008    

  EMPLOYMENT                           NUMBER             PERCENT              PROJECTED YEARLY  

  REGION                                       EMPLOYED        GROWTH               JOB OPENINGS  

  Ann Arbor Area                             945                        9.0                          28  

  Battle Creek Area                          425                        11.0                        13  

  Benton Harbor Area                      925                         5.0                          23  

  Central Michigan                            440                        4.6                          11  

  Detroit MSA                                 11,330                    5.9                          293  

  East Central Michigan                    280                        20.2                         12  

  Flint Area                                      850                        -2.1                          17  

  Grand Rapids Area                        2,960                     25.6                         135  

  Jackson Area                                950                         8.7                           27  

  Kalamazoo Area                           650                         7.8                           18  

  Lansing MSA                                670                         1.5                           14  

  Muskegon Area                            1,475                       2.4                           33  

  Northeast Lower Peninsula            340                         24.9                         15  

  Northwest Lower Peninsula           725                         20.5                         29  

  Saginaw MSA                               950                        10.5                          29  

  Thumb Area                                  685                        17.8                          26  

  Upper Peninsula                            405                         23.7                         18  

  West Central Michigan                  325                         12.5                         11    

MSA designates a Metropolitan Statistical Area.  

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION    

Printed occupational information is available upon written request from sources below:  

SUMMARY PROFILE    

The occupation of Machinist can be summarized by the following:  

Copyright © 2003 Michigan Department of Career Development