What is a Machinist?
If you’re looking for skilled manufacturing careers, understanding what a machinist does can open doors to well-paying opportunities in a field experiencing consistent demand.
A machinist operates machine tools to create precision metal parts by cutting, shaping, and finishing materials to exact specifications. CNC machinists specialize in computer-controlled equipment, programming machines that produce components for manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and other industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people in these roles earn an average salary of $53,000-$57,000 annually ($24-27/hour), with CNC and experienced machinists earning up to $76,000.
Role Responsibilities
Machinists transform raw materials into finished precision parts. They read and interpret blueprints and technical specifications, set up and operate machine tools including lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drill presses, take precise measurements using micrometers and calipers to ensure parts meet exact specifications, monitor machines during operation and adjust settings as needed, and inspect finished products for quality and accuracy.
The role demands strong mechanical aptitude, mathematical skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. These individuals create everything from medical implants to automotive components to industrial machinery parts.
CNC Machinist: The Modern Specialist
The CNC machinist represents the evolution of traditional machining. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinists use computer-controlled machines to create metal parts with exceptional precision. They interpret CAD and CAM files, write or modify CNC programs, set up workpieces and cutting tools, monitor automated production runs, and troubleshoot manufacturing issues.
This role combines technical knowledge with digital skills, making them highly valuable in modern manufacturing environments.
Education and Training
You don’t need a four-year degree to become a machinist. Most people in this career complete trade school or community college programs (18-24 months), apprenticeships combining classroom learning with paid training (3-4 years), or employer-provided on-the-job training.
Certifications from organizations like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) boost employability for any machnist.
Salary and Career Growth
The salary offers solid earning potential. Entry-level earns $45,500-$46,000 annually, experienced people in this career earn $53,000-$57,000, and CNC machinists command $66,000-$76,000+.
Career advancement moves from entry-level to experienced or CNC machinist, then to lead machinist or CNC programmer, and ultimately to shop supervisor or manufacturing manager earning $75,000-$100,000+.
Why Choose a Machinist Career?
These careers offer competitive pay without expensive degrees, hands-on work creating tangible products, opportunities with cutting-edge CNC technology, strong job security in essential manufacturing, and clear advancement pathways. Manufacturing reshoring and federal investments continue creating new opportunities across the country.
Ready to explore new opportunities? Contact NCW today to connect with manufacturing employers seeking skilled workers offering competitive pay and career advancement.