Northeast Advanced Manufacturing Consortium offers several career pathways for adult learners to find a lucrative and meaningful vocation in the manufacturing industry. These include pathways such as: machinist, machining, welder, assembler, quality and supply chain pathways. Today, let’s dive into the machinist pathway, explore what this exciting career path entails and what types of entry-level and specialized roles you could obtain.
What is a Machinist?
A machinist is a skilled tradesperson who fabricates, repairs, and modifies machine parts and tools, primarily made of metal, using a variety of machine tools and precision instruments. While their responsibilities differ from job to job, most people who choose this career path will find themselves interpreting blueprints, operating both manual and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, and making sure that the final product meets exact specifications.
Additional key responsibilities of a machinist include interpreting technical drawings, creating and repairing parts, maintaining the smooth operation of machinery, verifying the precision and accuracy of machines, troubleshooting and problem-solving when issues arise, and operating machines used in specific industries.
Entry-level Positions
When starting on the machinist pathway, there are several entry-level positions to explore. These include a Machine Operator who is just beginning the learning process on how to operate and maintain basic manual or automated machines. Another entry-level position would be an Entry-Level CNC Machinist, who will focus on gaining experience with computer numerical control (CNC) machines, programming, and operating them to create parts.
Specialized Roles in the Machining Pathway
As a machinist gains experience and expertise in the field, other roles become available. Some of these roles include: a set-up machinist who is responsible for setting up and preparing CNC machines for specific jobs, such as understanding geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T); a CNC programmer who writes and optimizes CNC machine code to create precise parts; and master machinist who reaches a high level of expertise in all aspects of machining, potentially mentoring other machinists.
Following a career pathway, a person trained as a machinist could continue their career into a management or leadership position. As a Machine Shop Supervisor, a machinist can assume a leadership role that puts them in a position to oversee a team of machinists, manage production, and ensure adherence to quality standards. Another option in leadership would be as a CNC Manager who would lead a CNC machining department, manage resources, and optimize production processes. Or, with even more experience and practice, a machinist would take on the role of Plant Manager, who would oversee all operations within a manufacturing plant, including machining, quality control, and production.
Explore more about the classes and training available to become a machinist through the NAMC and AMTEP programs near you. Discover more about this exciting career pathway and register for a class online.