Machinist salary
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What a machinist does
Machinists produce precision metal parts using manual and CNC machine tools, working to tight tolerances from engineering drawings.
Day-to-day duties
- Set up and operate CNC and manual machines
- Read engineering drawings and GD&T
- Programme or edit CNC toolpaths
- Inspect parts with precision instruments
- Maintain machines and tooling
Skills employers look for
- Precision measurement
- Blueprint and GD&T interpretation
- CNC programming
- Mathematical aptitude
Requirements
- Apprenticeship or technical programme
- CNC programming knowledge for higher-paid roles
- Precision measurement competence
- NIMS certification valued
How to get started
- 1 Start as a machine operator
- 2 Learn setup and programming
- 3 Earn NIMS or equivalent certification
- 4 Move into programming, prototyping or aerospace work
Job outlook: Skilled CNC machinists remain in short supply in manufacturing regions, and aerospace and medical work pays a premium.
Common questions about machinists
What does a machinist do?
Machinists produce precision metal parts using manual and CNC machine tools, working to tight tolerances from engineering drawings. Day to day, that means set up and operate CNC and manual machines, read engineering drawings and GD&T, programme or edit CNC toolpaths and inspect parts with precision instruments.
How do you become a machinist?
The usual route is: (1) start as a machine operator, (2) learn setup and programming, (3) earn NIMS or equivalent certification, (4) move into programming, prototyping or aerospace work. Employers typically look for apprenticeship or technical programme, CNC programming knowledge for higher-paid roles and precision measurement competence.
Do you need a certification to work as a machinist?
Usually not. Most employers hire machinists without a specific licence, though NIMS certification valued will widen your options and often your pay.
Are machinists in demand?
Skilled CNC machinists remain in short supply in manufacturing regions, and aerospace and medical work pays a premium.
Where are machinists most in demand?
See the metro and rural areas with the highest concentration of this work, ranked from Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data.
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Pay figures are estimates for guidance only, not an offer or guarantee. Advertised ranges come from job postings on LocalWork; government figures come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Actual pay depends on experience, certifications, shift and employer.