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MACHINISTS
Overview
Machinists use machine tools to produce precision metal parts.
The NASA rover "Spirit" made a near-perfect
landing on Mars. Thus began the nation's fascination with the amazing
images Spirit sent to earth. Using its complex machinery and digital
cameras, Spirit roved over the Mars landscape, including large craters
and smooth rocks. The color images Spirit sent back soon graced computer
monitors from Alaska to Florida. Everything about Spirit was working
flawlessly, and the country joined the scientists' giddiness about the
red planet.
So what do Spirit, Mars, and NASA have to do with machinists? Plenty.
Machinists played a central role in building the rover, using materials
such as titanium to create parts for the landing gear, motor, and
wheels. Many machinists worked for NASA, cooperating directly with
engineers and computer software, to make the unique space-exploring
robot. Because the spacecraft had to be fairly small, the rover was a
challenge to build. Machinists and engineers worked round the clock to
make Spirit so successful.
Machinists operate machine tools such as lathes, drill presses, and
milling machines. They use their knowledge of metal and tools to make
products that are precise sizes and shapes. For example, they make parts
for industrial machines, aircraft, cars, or other products. Some
machinists make large quantities of one part, especially very precise
parts. Others produce small batches or one-of-a-kind items.
Programs
(Machine
Technology and related)
Before they machine a part, machinists must plan and prepare the
operation. First, they review blueprints or written directions for a job.
Next, they calculate where to cut or bore into the work piece. They also
decide how fast to feed the metal stock and how much metal to remove. Then
they select the tools and materials for the job. They plan the sequence of
operations and mark the metal stock.
After this layout work, machinists perform the required machining
operations. They position the metal stock on the machine tool, set the
controls, and make the cuts. During this process, they monitor the feed
and speed of the machine. They also make sure the work piece is properly
lubricated and cooled. This is because the machining of metal products
creates a great deal of heat. Sometimes machinists make a trial run with
one work piece. Then they check the completed item to be sure it meets
requirements.
Today, the machine tools used to produce metal parts are often computer
numerically controlled (CNC). This means they contain computers that
direct the machine's operations. These machines can perform many functions
with only one setup. CNC machine tools enable machinists to produce more
parts in less time. They also enable machinists to produce parts with a
very high level of precision. The quality of the products these machines
produce depends on the programs. Skilled machinists may also do CNC
programming. It is becoming more common for machinists to be expected to
perform this task. Machinists work alone or with CNC programmers to check
new programs. A problem with the program could damage costly machinery and
cutting tools. Therefore, they often use computer simulations instead of
trial runs to check programs. If they change the program, they re-test it
before operating the machine.
Maintenance machinists clean, oil, and maintain the machine tools. They
also repair or make new parts for existing machinery. Most machinists
confer with supervisors or engineers when there are problems.
Work
Activities
The following list of occupational tasks is specific to this career.
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Study
blueprints or written directions.
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Calculate
where to cut, how much to remove, and how fast to feed metal into the
machine.
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Select tools
and materials for the job.
-
Plan
sequence of cutting and finishing operations. Mark metal stock.
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Position
metal stock and set controls.
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Operate
machines such as drill presses, lathes, and milling machines.
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Monitor feed
and speed of machines, lubrication of metal stock, and coolants.
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Make trial
run and check completed unit for defects.
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Clean,
lubricate, and maintain machinery.
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Repair or
make new parts for machinery.
-
May program
computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery.
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Check new
programs with computer simulations.
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Confer with
supervisors and engineers to exchange technical information.
People in this
career perform the following list of tasks, but the tasks are common to
many occupations.
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Handle
blueprints, tools, and metal materials.
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Control
machining operations.
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Implement
instructions and own ideas when producing metal parts and products.
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Repair and
maintain machine tools.
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Lay out
metal work pieces and specify tools and materials.
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Perform
activities that use the whole body, such as lifting large work pieces.
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Document and
record programs for CNC machine tools.
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Interact
with computers to program and operate machine tools.
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Get
information from blueprints and directions, and from monitoring and
inspecting machinery.
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Inspect
workpieces and equipment.
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Monitor
machine processes to identify problems.
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Estimate the
characteristics of metal materials.
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Process,
analyze, and evaluate information from blueprints and observation.
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Update and
use job-related knowledge of metals, machine tools, and computers.
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Make
decisions about cuts, tools, materials, and procedures.
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Judge the
quality of pieces created during test runs.
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Communicate
and consult with supervisors or engineers.
Working
Conditions
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
Interpersonal
Relationships
Physical Work
Conditions
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Often work
indoors with air conditioning, but on rare occasions work outdoors.
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Often wear
safety glasses and earplugs.
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Are
sometimes exposed to hazardous equipment. There is some possibility of
moderate injury.
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Are
sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and
uncomfortable.
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Are on rare
occasions exposed to hazardous coolants and lubricants.
Work
Performance
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Must be very
exact in their work and be sure all details are done. Errors could
seriously endanger workers' safety.
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Must allow
the work pace to be set by the speed of machinery.
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Repeat the
same physical activities.
Hours/Travel
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Usually work
a 40-hour week, but overtime is common during peak production times.
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May work
evening and weekend shifts. Many companies are extending their hours
of operation.
Physical
Demands
People in this
career frequently:
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Use hands to
handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
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Stand for
long periods of time.
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Repeat the
same movements over and over.
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Bend or
twist the body.
It is important
for people in this career to be able to:
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Make quick,
precise adjustments to machine controls.
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Use hands or
fingers to grasp, move, or assemble small objects.
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Make fast,
simple, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
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Bend,
stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms, and/or legs.
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Use stomach
and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without
getting tired.
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See details
of objects that are less than a few feet away.
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Hear sounds
and recognize the difference between them.
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Speak
clearly so listeners can understand.
It is not as
important, but still necessary, for people in this career to be able to:
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Choose
quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to
different signals.
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React
quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
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Adjust body
movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of
moving objects.
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Use muscles
to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
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Use muscles
for extended periods without getting tired.
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Quickly and
repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms,
and/or legs.
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Focus on one
source of sound and ignore others.
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See
differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
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Recognize
and understand the speech of another person.
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Determine
from which direction a sound came.
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Determine
the distance between objects.
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See details
of objects that are more than a few feet away.
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While
looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
Skills
& Abilities
People in this career need to:
Communicate
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Read and
understand written information.
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Understand
spoken information.
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Express
ideas clearly when speaking.
Reason and
Problem Solve
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Follow
guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
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Analyze
ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
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Notice when
something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
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Identify
problems and review information.
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Use
reasoning to discover answers to problems.
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Concentrate
and not be distracted while performing a task.
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Combine
several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
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Understand
new information or materials by studying and working with them.
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Develop
rules that group items in various ways.
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Examine
solutions to problems and evaluate their effectiveness.
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Think of new
and original ideas and solutions.
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Make sense
of information that seems without meaning or organization.
Use Math and
Science
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Add,
subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
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Use math
skills to solve problems.
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Use
scientific methods to solve problems.
Manage
Oneself, People, Time and Things
Work with
Things
-
Test,
inspect, and evaluate the quality of products or equipment.
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Operate and
control equipment.
-
Analyze
needs and requirements when designing products.
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Determine
the tools and equipment needed to do a job.
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Watch
gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Determine
the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
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Design or
install machines or programs to meet specifications or user needs.
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Repair and
maintain machinery. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is
needed.
Perceive and
Visualize
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Imagine how
something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
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Quickly and
accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
Knowledge
People in this career need knowledge in the following areas:
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Mechanical:
Knowledge of designing, using, and repairing machines and tools.
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Design:
Knowledge of making and using plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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Engineering
and Technology: Knowledge of how to build machines, buildings, and
other things. Also includes knowledge of how to use computers,
machines, and tools to do work more usefully.
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Mathematics:
Knowledge of the rules and uses of numbers. Areas of knowledge include
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
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Production
and Processing: Knowledge of how products are made and supplied.
Interests
People in this career are people who tend to:
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Consider
support from their employer important. They like to be treated fairly
and have supervisors who will back them up. They prefer jobs where
they are trained well.
-
Consider
achievement important. They like to see the results of their work and
to use their strongest abilities. They like to get a feeling of
accomplishment from their work.
-
Consider
good working conditions important. They like jobs offering steady
employment and good pay. They want employment that fits their
individual work style. They may prefer doing a variety of tasks,
working alone, or being busy all the time.
-
Consider
independence important. They like to make decisions and try out ideas
on their own. They prefer jobs where they can plan their work with
little supervision.
-
Have
realistic interests. They like work activities that include practical,
hands-on problems and solutions.
-
Have
investigative interests. They like work activities that have to do
with ideas and thinking. They like to search for facts and figure out
solutions to problems mentally.
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Have
conventional interests. They like work activities that follow set
procedures, routines, and standards. They like to work with data and
detail. They prefer working where there is a clear line of authority
to follow.
Preparation
Machinists must have at least a high school diploma or
GED. Many machinists have previously worked as machine tool operators or
setters. They usually receive on-the-job training. However, machinists who
do not have experience may learn their skills in apprenticeship programs
or on the job. Apprenticeships last about four years. Apprentices receive
a combination of classroom and on-the-job training. Classroom instruction
covers math, physics, blueprint reading, mechanical drawing, and shop
practices. Shop training includes the operation of machine tools,
including computer-controlled equipment. Apprenticeships are rare. As a
result, many machinists receive most of their formal training from
community or technical colleges. These programs usually last one or two
years.
As new technology is introduced, machinists usually receive additional
training. This training is often given by a representative of the
equipment manufacturer or a local technical school.
High school students interested in this field should take courses in math
and blueprint reading. Courses in metalworking and drafting are also
recommended. Basic knowledge of computers and electronics is also helpful.
Hiring Practices
Employers look for applicants who have mechanical ability and can work
independently. Employers often prefer skilled machinists or those with
technical school training. Employers may prefer applicants who are
certified. When filling apprenticeship positions, employers require
applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or
GED.
Licensing
& Certification
No State of Minnesota license requirements are found for this career
Certification for machinists is optional. However, it certifies that a
machinist has certain skills. Certification may help with hiring or
advancement. Certification is offered by the National Institute of
Metalworking Skills (NIMS). To obtain certification, machinists must:
For more information, contact:
National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc.
3251 Old Lee Highway, Suite 205
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 703.352.4971
Fax: 703.352.4991
Email: NIMS@nims-skills.org
http://www.nims-skills.org
Wages
In Minnesota, the median wage for machinists is $18.93 per hour, which
works out to $3,281 per month for a full time worker. Half of all
machinists earn between $15.68 and $22.15 per hour, or between $2,717
and $3,840 per month.
Nationally, the median wage for machinists is $2,800 per month. Half of
all machinists earn between $2,190 and $3,490 per month.
Wages vary by employer and area of the country. Wages also vary based on
the skill level of the machinist.
Full-time machinists often receive typical benefits. These include
vacation, sick leave, and health insurance.
Employment
In Minnesota, about 9,232 machinists work in this medium-sized
occupation.
Nationally, about 369,800 machinists work in this medium-sized occupation.
Machinists work in all parts of the country. However, jobs are most
plentiful in the Northeast, Midwest, and West, where manufacturing is
concentrated.
Major employers:
Industrial machinery manufacturers
Metalworking machinery manufacturers
Aircraft and parts manufacturers
Outlook
In Minnesota, the employment for machinists is expected to grow more
slowly than average for all occupations through the year 2014.
Nationally, the number of jobs for machinists is expected to increase more
slowly than average through the year 2014.
The slow growth will be due in part to the increase in productivity
brought by new technology. However, job opportunities will be good for
machinists. Employers continue to report difficulty finding workers with
the necessary skills and knowledge. In addition, many jobs will arise from
the need to replace experienced machinists who retire or leave the field.
Employment of machinists is affected by the economy. If the demand for
machined goods falls, machinists could be laid off. However, jobs for
maintenance machinists are often more stable. Proper maintenance and
repair of costly equipment will always be needed.
Advancement
Opportunities
Experienced machinists who receive on-the-job training or take classes may
become CNC programmers. Some machinists are promoted to supervisor or
manager jobs in their firms. A few machinists open their own shops.
Page
last updated in August, 2007.
Source: Minnesota
Department of Children, Families & Learning (MCIS) Minnesota
Career Information System
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