Machinists
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.
Also called: Aircraft Machinist, Auto Machinist (Automotive Machinist), Carbide Operator, CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Lathe Machinist), CNC Lathe Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Lathe Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist)
Median pay
$58,750
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$39,200 – $80,010
People employed
287,050
Holland code
RCI
Realistic · Conventional · Investigative
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Are you happy working mostly on your own, with little contact with others?
- 2.Do you want the same hours every week?
- 3.Are you OK being on your feet and moving most of the day?
- 4.Are you OK repeating the same tasks most of the day?
- 5.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 6.Do you work well under tight deadlines?
The hard parts
- Long hours on your feet
- Tight deadlines are common
Machinists pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (50 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What machinists do
- 01Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
- 02Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
- 03Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
- 04Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
- 05Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
- 06Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
Skills that matter most
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Mathematics
Knowledge
- Mathematics
- Mechanical
- Production and Processing
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Cautiousness
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs vocational training or an associate degree (O*NET Job Zone 3).
- Related work experience: over 2 years, up to and including 4 years.
- On-the-job training: over 3 months, up to and including 6 months.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from machinists
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators88% · −14%
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics85% · +10%
- Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers83% · +11%
- Engine and Other Machine Assemblers83% · −9%
- Millwrights81% · +12%
Change into machinists
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators88% · $50,690
- Engine and Other Machine Assemblers81% · $53,710
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics81% · $64,520
- Automotive Engineering Technicians79% · $74,510
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery79% · $60,850
Majors that lead here
- Machine Tool Technology/Machinist
- Machine Shop Technology/Assistant
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.