Machinist

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist); CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist); Gear Machinist; Machine Repair Person; Machinist; Maintenance Machinist; Manual Lathe Machinist; Production Machinist; Tool Room Machinist

Tasks

• Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
• Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
• Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
• Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
• Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
• Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
• Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
• Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
• Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.
• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
• Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.
• Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
• Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.
• Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.
• Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.

Knowledge

• Mathematics
• Production and Processing
• Mechanical
• Design

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Active Listening
• Speaking

Abilities

• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Control Precision
• Problem Sensitivity
• Deductive Reasoning
• Selective Attention
• Near Vision
• Oral Comprehension
• Information Ordering
• Visualization
• Multilimb Coordination
• Rate Control
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Flexibility of Closure
• Perceptual Speed
• Reaction Time
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity