BlissPoint Analytics

Occupation AtlasMachinists

O*NET · 51-4041.00

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.

Also called Aircraft Machinist · Auto Machinist · Auto Machinist (Automotive Machinist) · Carbide Operator · CNC Lathe Machinist · CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Lathe Machinist) · CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Machinist) · CNC Machinist
51 more

CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist) · CNC Mill Machinist · CNC Mill Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Mill Machinist) · CNC Mill Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Mill Machinist) · CNC Milling Machinist · CNC Milling Machinist (Computer Numeric Control Milling Machinist) · CNC Swiss Machinist · CNC Swiss Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Swiss Machinist) · Conventional Machinist · Development Mechanic · Electrical Experimental Mechanic · Electrical Instrument Maker · Electrical Machinist · Experimental Machinist · Experimental Mechanic · Fixture Maker · Fluid-Power Mechanic · Four-Slide Operator · Gear Machinist · Geothermal Heat Pump Machinist · Hydroelectric Component Machinist · Instrument Maker · Instrument Maker and Repairer · Jobber · Lab Machinist · Laboratory Machinist (Lab Machinist) · Lathe Machinist · Light Fixture Maker · Machine Fitter · Machine Repair Person · Machinist · Maintenance Machinist · Manual Lathe Machinist · Manual Machinist · Mechanist · Metal Machinist · Outside Machinist · Outside Ship Machinist · Precision Instrument Maker · Precision Machinist · Printing Press Machinist · Production Machinist · Thermometer Maker · Tool and Die Machinist · Tool Machinist · Tool Room Machinist · Toolroom Machinist · Turret Lathe Machinist · Wind Turbine Machinist

Job Zone 3 — Medium Preparation NeededHolland code RCI35 skills on file

Compare with another occupationCompare with Sheet Metal Workers

Job Zone

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed

Medium preparation. Vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree, with one to two years of training that combines experience and informal instruction.

Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.

Occupational interest profile

RCIRealistic · Conventional · Investigative — the three strongest interests, in order

  • R Realistic7.00
  • C Conventional4.40
  • I Investigative3.70
  • A Artistic1.95
  • E Enterprising1.21
  • S Social1.16

RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.

Education and experience

The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.

  • Less than a High School Diploma14%
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent36%
  • Post-Secondary Certificate33%
  • Some College Courses17%
Related work experience
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years (20%)
On-site or in-plant training
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years (22%)
On-the-job training
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months (34%)

Typically associated skills

All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.

  • Operation and Control3.33.4Level 4 looks like: Adjust the speed of assembly line equipment based on the product being assembled
  • Operations Monitoring3.13.3Level 4 looks like: Monitor machine functions on an automated production line
  • Critical Thinkingbasic3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Evaluate customer complaints and determine appropriate responses
  • Monitoringbasic3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Monitor a meeting and revise the agenda to ensure important topics are discussed
  • Complex Problem Solving3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
  • Coordination3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
  • Quality Control Analysis3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Inspect a draft email for errors (e.g., grammar, punctuation)
  • Speakingbasic3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Greet tourists and explain tourist attractions
  • Active Listeningbasic3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Take a customer's order
  • Troubleshooting3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
  • Reading Comprehensionbasic2.93.0Level 2 looks like: Read step-by-step instructions for completing a form
  • Equipment Maintenance2.92.9Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
Show the other 23
  • Mathematicsbasic2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
  • Repairing2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
  • Social Perceptiveness2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
  • Time Management2.92.6Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
  • Active Learningbasic2.82.9Level 2 looks like: Think about the implications of a news article for job opportunities
  • Judgment and Decision Making2.82.8Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
  • Equipment Selection2.62.6Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
  • Instructing2.52.8Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
  • Writingbasic2.52.6Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
  • Installation2.52.4Level 2 looks like: Install a new air filter in an air conditioner
  • Systems Evaluation2.52.3Level 2 looks like: Determine why estimates for the time to complete a task are overly optimistic
  • Systems Analysis2.52.1Level 2 looks like: Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a job
  • Negotiation2.42.1Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
  • Persuasion2.32.1Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
  • Service Orientation2.32.1Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
  • Learning Strategiesbasic2.12.4Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
  • Management of Personnel Resources2.02.0Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
  • Operations Analysis2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
  • Technology Design1.91.9Level 2 looks like: Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customer
  • Programming1.81.1Level 2 looks like: Write a program to sort objects in a database
  • Management of Material Resources1.81.0Level 2 looks like: Reserve a room for a management meeting
  • Management of Financial Resources1.60.8
  • Sciencebasic1.50.8

Tasks

20 core · 9 supplemental

What people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).

  1. Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.4.8
  2. Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.4.8
  3. Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.4.6
  4. Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.4.6
  5. Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.4.5
  6. Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.4.5
  7. Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.4.5
  8. Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.4.5
  9. Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.4.4
  10. Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.4.3
  11. Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.4.3
  12. Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.4.3
Show the other 17
  1. Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.4.3
  2. Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.4.1
  3. Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.4.1
  4. Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.4.0
  5. Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information.4.0
  6. Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.4.0
  7. Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal.4.0
  8. Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.3.9
  9. Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics.4.4
  10. Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.4.1
  11. Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed.4.0
  12. Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design.4.0
  13. Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines.3.9
  14. Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance.3.9
  15. Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment.3.9
  16. Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.3.6
  17. Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms.3.6

Knowledge

Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.

  • Mathematics3.53.5Level 4 looks like: Analyze data to determine areas with the highest sales
  • Mechanical3.33.9Level 4 looks like: Replace a valve on a steam pipe
  • Production and Processing3.33.0Level 4 looks like: Supervise an appliance assembly line
  • Design3.03.4Level 4 looks like: Design plans for remodeling a kitchen
  • Engineering and Technology2.73.0Level 4 looks like: Design a custom office chair
  • English Language2.72.0Level 1 looks like: Write a thank you note
  • Computers and Electronics2.42.5Level 1 looks like: Operate a media player to watch a training video
  • Customer and Personal Service2.42.3Level 1 looks like: Process a customer's dry-cleaning drop off
Show all 33
  • Education and Training2.22.6
  • Physics2.21.9Level 1 looks like: Use a crowbar to pry open a box
  • Administration and Management2.11.9Level 1 looks like: Approve a reimbursement request
  • Administrative2.11.5Level 1 looks like: Direct phone calls to the appropriate staff member
  • Building and Construction1.81.3Level 1 looks like: Choose the proper type of wood for adding a deck onto a house
  • Personnel and Human Resources1.81.1Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
  • Transportation1.71.4Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
  • Chemistry1.61.4Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
  • Public Safety and Security1.61.1Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
  • Economics and Accounting1.5—
  • Communications and Media1.4—
  • Sales and Marketing1.4—
  • Telecommunications1.4—
  • Biology1.3—
  • Foreign Language1.3—
  • Law and Government1.3—
  • Medicine and Dentistry1.3—
  • Psychology1.3—
  • Sociology and Anthropology1.3—
  • Fine Arts1.2—
  • Philosophy and Theology1.2—
  • Food Production1.0—
  • Geography1.0—
  • History and Archeology1.0—
  • Therapy and Counseling1.0—

Abilities

Enduring capacities the work calls for.

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness3.63.4Level 4 looks like: Thread a needle
  • Finger Dexterity3.63.6Level 4 looks like: Attach small dials to audio equipment on an assembly line
  • Manual Dexterity3.63.1Level 4 looks like: Pack oranges in crates as quickly as possible
  • Control Precision3.53.8Level 4 looks like: Adjust farm tractor controls
  • Deductive Reasoning3.33.3Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
  • Near Vision3.33.5Level 2 looks like: Read indicators on the dashboard of a car
  • Problem Sensitivity3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
  • Selective Attention3.33.3Level 4 looks like: Watch security monitors for intruders throughout the night shift
Show all 52
  • Information Ordering3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
  • Multilimb Coordination3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Operate a forklift truck in a warehouse
  • Oral Comprehension3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
  • Rate Control3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Keep up with a car that changes speed
  • Visualization3.13.9Level 4 looks like: Follow a diagram to assemble a metal storage cabinet
  • Category Flexibility3.03.1Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
  • Flexibility of Closure3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
  • Inductive Reasoning3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
  • Oral Expression3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Place an order at a restaurant drive-thru
  • Perceptual Speed3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Sort mail according to ZIP codes with no time pressure
  • Reaction Time3.03.1Level 4 looks like: Press a button to stop operation when a warning light goes off
  • Speech Clarity3.02.9
  • Speech Recognition3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
  • Written Comprehension3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Understand signs on the highway
  • Far Vision2.92.9Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
  • Mathematical Reasoning2.92.9
  • Auditory Attention2.83.1Level 4 looks like: Listen for your flight announcement at a busy airport
  • Extent Flexibility2.83.0Level 2 looks like: Reach to adjust the radio in a car
  • Number Facility2.82.9Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
  • Trunk Strength2.83.0Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
  • Wrist-Finger Speed2.82.6Level 3 looks like: Carve roast beef in a cafeteria
  • Written Expression2.82.9
  • Depth Perception2.62.6Level 2 looks like: Merge a car into traffic on a city street
  • Fluency of Ideas2.62.9Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
  • Hearing Sensitivity2.62.8Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
  • Originality2.62.9Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
  • Response Orientation2.62.6Level 2 looks like: When a doorbell and phone ring at the same time, quickly select which to answer first
  • Time Sharing2.62.6Level 3 looks like: Watch street signs while driving at 30 miles an hour
  • Static Strength2.52.6
  • Speed of Closure2.42.6Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
  • Visual Color Discrimination2.42.5Level 1 looks like: Separate laundry into colors and whites
  • Dynamic Strength2.32.3Level 2 looks like: Use pruning shears to trim a bush
  • Memorization2.32.1Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
  • Stamina2.32.1Level 1 looks like: Walk 1/4 mile
  • Gross Body Coordination2.12.0Level 2 looks like: Get in and out of a truck
  • Gross Body Equilibrium2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Stand on a ladder
  • Spatial Orientation2.01.8Level 2 looks like: Use the floor plan to locate a store in a mall
  • Speed of Limb Movement2.02.0Level 2 looks like: Saw through a thin piece of wood
  • Explosive Strength1.91.3Level 2 looks like: Hit a nail with a hammer
  • Sound Localization1.91.0Level 2 looks like: Listen to a sound system to determine which speaker is working
  • Peripheral Vision1.81.0Level 2 looks like: Keep in step while marching in a band
  • Dynamic Flexibility1.60.6
  • Glare Sensitivity1.60.8
  • Night Vision1.50.5

Work activities

Kinds of activity the work is made of.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes4.76.3Level 7 looks like: Operate a precision milling machine
  • Getting Information4.33.1Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials4.34.1Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events3.93.6Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings3.94.1Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment3.84.4Level 4 looks like: Change the oil on a tractor
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates3.73.6Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems3.74.2Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
Show all 41
  • Handling and Moving Objects3.65.4Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
  • Processing Information3.54.1Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
  • Training and Teaching Others3.53.5Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment3.43.4Level 4 looks like: Specify the furniture and equipment for a new school
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work3.44.2Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge3.44.3Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
  • Working with Computers3.43.3Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards3.33.0Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a complicated insurance claim for compliance with policy terms
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People3.33.8Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
  • Performing General Physical Activities3.24.0Level 4 looks like: Paint the outside of a house
  • Documenting/Recording Information3.13.2Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others3.02.8
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships3.03.7Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
  • Analyzing Data or Information2.93.1Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information2.93.2Level 4 looks like: Estimate the time required to evacuate a city in the event of a major disaster
  • Scheduling Work and Activities2.93.4Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
  • Thinking Creatively2.94.0Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
  • Coaching and Developing Others2.83.2Level 4 looks like: Provide on-the-job training for administrative workers
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment2.82.3Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
  • Developing and Building Teams2.72.4Level 1 looks like: Encourage two coworkers to stick with a tough assignment
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others2.71.9Level 1 looks like: Interpret a blood pressure reading
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others2.72.9
  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources2.62.4Level 1 looks like: Work as a server responsible for keeping track of utensils
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others2.62.6
  • Developing Objectives and Strategies2.52.5Level 1 looks like: Plan the holiday schedule for an airline workforce
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates2.42.1Level 1 looks like: Work occasionally as a backup supervisor
  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment2.32.1Level 1 looks like: Use display settings to adjust a television picture
  • Assisting and Caring for Others2.01.9Level 1 looks like: Help a coworker complete an assignment
  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization2.01.1Level 1 looks like: Have little contact with people outside the organization
  • Selling or Influencing Others2.01.5Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
  • Performing Administrative Activities1.91.7Level 1 looks like: Complete routine paperwork
  • Staffing Organizational Units1.81.0Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public1.4—

Work context

The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.

  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls4.9
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets4.9
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate4.6
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams4.5
  • Spend Time Standing4.5
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment4.3
  • Freedom to Make Decisions4.2
  • Time Pressure4.2
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled4.1
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions4.0

Technology

33 tools

Software used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.

In demand (2)

  • G-code
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software

Hot (8)

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • SAP software
Other tools (23)
  • 3D Printing software
  • Armchair Machinist software
  • Autodesk Fusion 360
  • Autodesk HSMWorks
  • CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator
  • CNC Mastercam
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA
  • EditCNC
  • ERP software
  • GRZ Software MeshCAM
  • Hexagon Metrology PC-DMIS
  • IMSI TurboCAD
  • JETCAM
  • JobBOSS
  • Kentech Kipware Studio
  • Kentech Kipware Trig Kalculator
  • Mazak Mazatrol SMART CNC
  • OneCNC CAD/CAM
  • OnShape
  • PTC Creo Parametric
  • Siemens NX
  • SolidCAM CAM software
  • Vero Software SURFCAM

Related occupations

O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.

  1. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
  2. Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  3. Tool and Die Makers
  4. Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  5. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
  6. Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  7. Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
  8. Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
  9. Millwrights
  10. Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

ESCO equivalents

From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.