Salary Range
Low (10th %)$36,690
Median$50,840
High (90th %)$75,820
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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.
The automation risk for the occupation "Machinists" stands at 41.7%, which is slightly below the base risk of 42.2%. This figure reflects the nuanced blend of both highly automatable and more complex, human-centric tasks that characterize this role. Many of the day-to-day responsibilities undertaken by machinists incorporate a significant level of repetition, measurement, and adherence to technical specifications—areas where automation has made substantial advances. Modern CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, for example, can already perform many standard machining and measurement tasks with minimal human intervention. Nonetheless, the overall automation risk does not surpass half, indicating that several aspects of a machinist's work require specific skills and adaptability that current technology cannot fully replicate. Among the tasks most susceptible to automation are "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," and "Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers." These responsibilities are strongly procedural and rely on precise measurements and adjustments—processes that are increasingly being handled by automated systems and robotic tools. Automated inspection technology and advanced robotics can readily reduce the human labor needed for these measurements and the actual machining process, thereby elevating the automation risk for these specific tasks within the larger occupation. On the other hand, certain responsibilities present natural resistance to automation. Tasks like "Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products," "Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms," and "Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines" embody a need for complex decision-making, creativity, and communication. These require adaptability, domain expertise, and problem-solving skills—areas where current AI and robotic systems face significant bottlenecks. The bottleneck skill identified, Originality, is utilized at relatively low rates (2.6% and 2.9%), but its presence still acts as a barrier to full automation of the occupation. This is why, despite technological advancements in machinery and automation, there remains a considerable portion of the machinist's role that is not easily replaced by machines.
Filter by Automatable Status
Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
Non-Automatable
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
Partially Automatable
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
Partially Automatable
Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
Partially Automatable
Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
Partially Automatable
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
Automatable
Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
Partially Automatable
Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.
Non-Automatable
Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
Non-Automatable
Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.
Partially Automatable
Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
Partially Automatable
Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.
Partially Automatable
Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.
Partially Automatable
Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information.
Partially Automatable
Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.
Non-Automatable
Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal.
Partially Automatable
Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
Automatable
Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.
Non-Automatable
Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed.
Non-Automatable
Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design.
Partially Automatable
Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment.
Partially Automatable
Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance.
Partially Automatable
Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines.
Partially Automatable
Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms.
Non-Automatable
Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.
Partially Automatable
Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.
Partially Automatable
Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
Partially Automatable
Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.
Partially Automatable
Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics.
Partially Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningLearning StrategiesComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringQuality Control AnalysisJudgment and Decision MakingManagement of Material ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceCritical ThinkingActive LearningMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingService OrientationOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingSystems AnalysisSystems EvaluationTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Personnel Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
AdministrativeEconomics and AccountingSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryHistory and ArcheologyPhilosophy and TheologyPublic Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsBiologyPsychologySociology and AnthropologyGeographyMedicine and DentistryForeign LanguageEnglish LanguageFine ArtsEducation and TrainingTransportationTherapy and CounselingCommunications and MediaAdministration and Management
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationGetting InformationJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkPerforming General Physical ActivitiesHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentDocumenting/Recording InformationInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with Computers
3D Printing softwareArmchair Machinist softwareSiemens NXERP softwareG-codeIMSI TurboCADMazak Mazatrol SMART CNCAutodesk Fusion 360CNC Consulting Machinists' CalculatorPTC Creo ParametricGRZ Software MeshCAMHexagon Metrology PC-DMISComputer aided design CAD softwareJETCAMComputer aided manufacturing CAM softwareJobBOSSKentech Kipware StudioKentech Kipware Trig KalculatorOneCNC CAD/CAMDassault Systemes CATIAOnShapeDassault Systemes SolidWorksSolidCAM CAM softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordSAP softwareCNC MastercamEditCNCMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareSiemens NXPTC Creo ParametricComputer aided design CAD softwareIMSI TurboCADVero Software SURFCAMAutodesk HSMWorksAutodesk Fusion 360Computer aided manufacturing CAM softwareEditCNC3D Printing softwareArmchair Machinist softwareCNC Consulting Machinists' CalculatorDassault Systemes CATIADassault Systemes SolidWorksGRZ Software MeshCAMHexagon Metrology PC-DMISJETCAMJobBOSSMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordSAP softwareCNC MastercamG-codeKentech Kipware StudioKentech Kipware Trig KalculatorOneCNC CAD/CAMOnShapeSolidCAM CAM softwareMicrosoft ExcelAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCADMazak Mazatrol SMART CNCMastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing softwareERP softwareVero Software SURFCAMAutodesk HSMWorksMastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing softwareMicrosoft Office software
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Medium50.00%
Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.
Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Medium49.31%
Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
Millwrights
Low12.88%
Install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to layout plans, blueprints, or other drawings.
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Low28.35%
Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.
Electrical and Electronic Equipment Assemblers
Medium41.74%
Assemble or modify electrical or electronic equipment, such as computers, test equipment telemetering systems, electric motors, and batteries.
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers
Low30.05%
Assemble or modify electromechanical equipment or devices, such as servomechanisms, gyros, dynamometers, magnetic drums, tape drives, brakes, control linkage, actuators, and appliances.
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Medium37.10%
Construct, assemble, or rebuild machines, such as engines, turbines, and similar equipment used in such industries as construction, extraction, textiles, and paper manufacturing.
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Medium34.93%
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Medium38.52%
Set up, operate, or tend grinding and related tools that remove excess material or burrs from surfaces, sharpen edges or corners, or buff, hone, or polish metal or plastic work pieces.
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Medium35.75%
Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Medium47.82%
Set up, operate, or tend milling or planing machines to mill, plane, shape, groove, or profile metal or plastic work pieces.
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Medium47.80%
Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Medium44.70%
Set up, operate, or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot.
Tool and Die Makers
Medium42.07%
Analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Medium47.79%
Set up, operate, or tend welding, soldering, or brazing machines or robots that weld, braze, solder, or heat treat metal products, components, or assemblies. Includes workers who operate laser cutters or laser-beam machines.
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Medium33.53%
Lay out reference points and dimensions on metal or plastic stock or workpieces, such as sheets, plates, tubes, structural shapes, castings, or machine parts, for further processing. Includes shipfitters.
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
Medium39.82%
Perform precision smoothing, sharpening, polishing, or grinding of metal objects.
Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
Medium44.55%
Set up, operate, or tend woodworking machines, such as drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, sanders, planers, and wood nailing machines. May operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
Medium58.43%
Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
High68.97%
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
Mechanical Drafters
Medium57.37%
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
Boilermakers
Low15.98%
Construct, assemble, maintain, and repair stationary steam boilers and boiler house auxiliaries. Align structures or plate sections to assemble boiler frame tanks or vats, following blueprints. Work involves use of hand and power tools, plumb bobs, levels, wedges, dogs, or turnbuckles. Assist in testing assembled vessels. Direct cleaning of boilers and boiler furnaces. Inspect and repair boiler fittings, such as safety valves, regulators, automatic-control mechanisms, water columns, and auxiliary machines.
Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters
Low18.90%
Perform precision assembling or adjusting, within narrow tolerances, of timing devices such as digital clocks or timing devices with electrical or electronic components.
Team Assemblers
Medium51.70%
Work as part of a team having responsibility for assembling an entire product or component of a product. Team assemblers can perform all tasks conducted by the team in the assembly process and rotate through all or most of them, rather than being assigned to a specific task on a permanent basis. May participate in making management decisions affecting the work. Includes team leaders who work as part of the team.
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Medium46.07%
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Medium34.63%
Use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products.
Model Makers, Wood
Medium42.20%
Construct full-size and scale wooden precision models of products. Includes wood jig builders and loft workers.
Patternmakers, Wood
Medium48.09%
Plan, lay out, and construct wooden unit or sectional patterns used in forming sand molds for castings.
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
Medium63.83%
Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.