Manufacturing & Production
Machinist
Operates and maintains machine tools to produce precisely shaped metal or plastic parts.
Technical/Vocational
Role overview
Operates and maintains machine tools to produce precisely shaped metal or plastic parts.
Career role Name
Machinist
Career Cluster
Manufacturing & Production
Career Role details
Operates and maintains machine tools to produce precisely shaped metal or plastic parts.
Job duties and Responsibilities
Setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines and manual lathes, reading blueprints, inspecting finished parts, troubleshooting machine issues.
Industry alignment
Automotive, Aerospace, Tool & Die, General Manufacturing - precision parts fabrication.
Work environment
Factory floor environment, often involves shift work. Can be noisy and require protective gear.
Opportunity Type
Skill-based growth, moderate to high stress, steady salary, low creativity, high stability.
Key skills needed
Machine Operation (Advanced), Blueprint Reading (Proficient), Precision Measurement (Proficient), Mechanical Aptitude (Advanced), Problem-Solving (Proficient).
Interest type alignment
Realistic (Working with machines, tools, hands-on), Investigative (Analyzing problems with machinery).
Career growth Path
Apprentice Machinist (0-2 yrs) -> Machinist (2-7 yrs) -> Senior Machinist / CNC Programmer (7-15 yrs) -> Lead Machinist / Supervisor (15+ yrs).
Suggested education Pathways 10th standard onwards
1. ITI (Machinist Trade) -> Advanced Diploma in Tool & Die Making
2. Diploma in Mechanical Engineering -> On-the-job training in machining
3. Vocational Training in CNC Machining -> Certification in advanced machining techniques.
Education Stream recommendations
Technical/Vocational
Demand in India
Consistent demand, particularly for skilled CNC machinists.
Demand globally
Good demand, especially in countries with strong manufacturing bases.
Career & Job Prospects
CNC Programmer, Toolmaker, Machine Operator Supervisor, Quality Inspector.