Engineering Technology Pathways Career Opportunity: Manual Machinist
My Story
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-Taylor Fields
CAD/CAM
Description
Manual machinists use machine tools—such as lathes, milling machines and machining centers—to produce precision metal parts. Although they may produce large quantities of one part, precision machinists often produce small batches or one-of-a-kind items. They use their knowledge of the working properties of metals and their skill with machine tools to make machined products that meet precise specifications. Most machinists learn to operate a wide range of machines.
Working environment
Manual machinists usually work in an enclosed manufacturing facility where numerous other machine tools are set up for manufacturing parts and assemblies. Most manufacturing facilities today are relatively clean, well lit and ventilated. Many computer-controlled machines are partially or totally enclosed, minimizing exposure to noise, debris and lubricants. However, working around machine tools presents certain dangers, and workers must follow safety precautions such as using safety glasses and earplugs. Because they must work where the machine tools are located, machinists cannot work from home. Full-time machinists work an average of 40 hours a week. Depending on the business, machinists may work a day, swing or graveyard shift. Most manufacturing facilities prefer to hire full-time workers, and they frequently offer overtime. Travel is usually not required in this position, although some companies may occasionally assign a machinist to work at a customer facility.
Job duties
Machinists must learn to operate a wide range of equipment including machines that use metal cutting tools, lasers, water jets and electrified wires.
Operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts within specifications
Fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machines
Maintain industrial machines
Apply knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, layout and machining procedures
Apply knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD and T) to meet specifications
Read drawings, blueprints, schematics, specifications and other technical materials
Wage range
Average starting hourly wage: $13.60
Median hourly wage: $19.48
Average annual income: $40,796
Employment outlook
Current employment: Larger than statewide average
Employment growth: Somewhat slower than statewide average
Job opening projection: Somewhat higher than statewide average
Links
Oregon Labor Market Information System: Includes data on current employment trends and future Career Opportunities, along with tools for finding a variety of occupational information.
Association of Manufacturing Technology: Promotes technological advancements and improvements in the design, manufacture and sale of manufacturing machinery and equipment.
American National Standards Institute: Coordinates the development and use of thousands of voluntary industrial standards, including ISO 9000 (quality) and ISO 14000 (environmental).
Modern Machine Shop: Online publication emphasizing various machining and manufacturing subjects, along with advertising for machine and tool companies.
National Tooling and Machining Association: Provides advocacy, advice, networking, information, programs, and services to the U.S. precision custom manufacturing industry.
eFunda: Provides an online engineering reference with concise, reliable information on materials, design, processes, units, formulas and math.
Wikipedia: Includes a history of CNC machines, explains the basic types and movements of CNC machines, and provides links to related information.
