Machinists

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.95
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.94
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.91
Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.89
Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.89
Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.87
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.87
Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.86
Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.85
Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics.85
Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.84
Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.83

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Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.83
Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.82
Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.78
Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.77
Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.77
Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.76
Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information.76
Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.76
Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed.76
Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal.75
Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design.74
Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment.74
Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.73
Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance.72
Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines.72
Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms.64
Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.64

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Operation and Control56
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Critical Thinking53
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Monitoring53
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operations Monitoring53
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Active Listening50
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving50
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Quality Control Analysis50
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Speaking50
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Troubleshooting50
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Equipment Maintenance47
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Mathematics47
Using mathematics to solve problems.

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Reading Comprehension47
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Repairing47
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Time Management47
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Active Learning44
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Judgment and Decision Making44
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Equipment Selection41
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Installation38
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Instructing38
Teaching others how to do something.
Systems Analysis38
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation38
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Writing38
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Negotiation35
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Persuasion31
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Service Orientation31
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Learning Strategies28
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources25
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Operations Analysis25
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Technology Design22
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Management of Material Resources19
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Programming19
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Management of Financial Resources16
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Science13
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Mathematics62
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Mechanical58
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Production and Processing57
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Design50
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Engineering and Technology43
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language43
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service35
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Computers and Electronics34
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Education and Training31
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Physics30
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Administration and Management28
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Administrative26
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

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Building and Construction21
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Personnel and Human Resources20
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Transportation17
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Chemistry16
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Public Safety and Security16
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Economics and Accounting12
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Telecommunications11
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Communications and Media9
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Sales and Marketing9
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Biology8
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Foreign Language8
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Psychology8
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Law and Government7
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Sociology and Anthropology7
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Fine Arts6
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Medicine and Dentistry6
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Philosophy and Theology6
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Geography1
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
History and Archeology1
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling1
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Arm-Hand Steadiness66
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Finger Dexterity66
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Manual Dexterity66
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Control Precision63
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Deductive Reasoning56
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Near Vision56
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Problem Sensitivity56
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Selective Attention56
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Information Ordering53
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Multilimb Coordination53
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Oral Comprehension53
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Rate Control53
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.

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Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Category Flexibility50
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Flexibility of Closure50
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Inductive Reasoning50
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Expression50
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Reaction Time50
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Speech Clarity50
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition50
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Written Comprehension50
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Far Vision47
The ability to see details at a distance.
Mathematical Reasoning47
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Auditory Attention44
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Extent Flexibility44
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Number Facility44
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Trunk Strength44
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Wrist-Finger Speed44
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Written Expression44
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Depth Perception41
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Fluency of Ideas41
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Hearing Sensitivity41
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Originality41
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Response Orientation41
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Static Strength38
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Speed of Closure35
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Visual Color Discrimination35
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Dynamic Strength31
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Stamina31
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Gross Body Coordination28
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium25
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Spatial Orientation25
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement25
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Explosive Strength22
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Sound Localization22
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Peripheral Vision19
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Dynamic Flexibility16
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity16
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Night Vision13
The ability to see under low-light conditions.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Controlling Machines and Processes92
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Getting Information83
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials81
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events72
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings72
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment69
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates67
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems67
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Handling and Moving Objects66
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Processing Information63
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Training and Teaching Others63
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work60
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge60
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment59
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Working with Computers59
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards57
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People57
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Performing General Physical Activities56
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Documenting/Recording Information53
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships50
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others49
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Analyzing Data or Information48
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Thinking Creatively48
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information47
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Scheduling Work and Activities47
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment45
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Coaching and Developing Others44
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Developing and Building Teams42
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others42
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others42
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources41
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others40
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Developing Objectives and Strategies38
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates36
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment32
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Assisting and Caring for Others26
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Selling or Influencing Others26
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization24
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Performing Administrative Activities23
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Staffing Organizational Units20
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public10
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail96
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness72
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Achievement Orientation57
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Perseverance53
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Integrity45
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Innovation37
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Stress Tolerance36
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Self-Confidence33
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Intellectual Curiosity30
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Self-Control27
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Adaptability26
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.

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Cooperation22
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Initiative22
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Sincerity11
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Optimism8
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic100
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional57
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative45
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Artistic16
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Enterprising4
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social3
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day94%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually89%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important61%
- Very important39%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day78%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually62%
- More than half the time26%
- About half the time11%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important69%
- Important20%
Time Pressure
- Every day57%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom38%
- Some freedom42%
- Limited freedom18%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day75%
- Never19%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually46%
- More than half the time29%
- Less than half the time18%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day62%
- Never20%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day56%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Never13%

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Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom34%
- Some freedom38%
- Limited freedom20%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours44%
- 40 hours56%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important31%
- Very important40%
- Important21%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important27%
- Very important39%
- Important21%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others32%
- Contact with others most of the time36%
- Contact with others about half the time14%
- Occasional contact with others11%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day54%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never18%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility38%
- High responsibility20%
- Moderate responsibility21%
- Limited responsibility18%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results23%
- Important results33%
- Moderate results25%
- Minor results17%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important41%
- Very important17%
- Fairly important23%
- Not important at all12%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)19%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)26%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)25%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)22%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Continually or almost continually26%
- More than half the time23%
- About half the time13%
- Less than half the time31%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility21%
- High responsibility37%
- Limited responsibility23%
- No responsibility14%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day43%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never32%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Never27%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive15%
- Highly competitive24%
- Moderately competitive36%
- Not at all competitive17%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious23%
- Very serious24%
- Fairly serious25%
- Not serious at all21%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated24%
- Moderately automated49%
- Not at all automated12%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually21%
- About half the time14%
- Less than half the time49%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important27%
- Important16%
- Fairly important14%
- Not important at all39%
E-Mail
- Every day17%
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never46%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day11%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Never52%
Written Letters and Memos
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never40%
Conflict Situations
- Every day12%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never45%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day18%
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
- Never56%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
- Never60%
Spend Time Sitting
- About half the time18%
- Less than half the time52%
- Never30%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day13%
- Never72%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Never72%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Never69%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never57%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never62%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time32%
- Never59%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never84%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time16%
- Never74%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never83%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never72%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never75%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Never83%
Public Speaking
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never78%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Never88%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never87%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time23%
- Never77%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)95%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never95%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never99%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

High school diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary certificate
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
CNC Mastercam, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software, OneCNC CAD/CAM
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes CATIA, PTC Creo Parametric, SolidCAM CAM software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
ERP software, JobBOSS, SAP software
Analytical or scientific software
Armchair Machinist software, CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator, Kentech Kipware Trig Kalculator
Industrial control software
EditCNC, Mazak Mazatrol SMART CNC
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Object or component oriented development software
G-code
Procedure management software
Hexagon Metrology PC-DMIS

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
Operate cutting equipment.
Operate grinding equipment.
Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Maintain production or processing equipment.
Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.
Determine metal or plastic production methods.
Prepare fabrics or materials for processing or production.

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Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
Conduct test runs of production equipment.
Exchange information with colleagues.
Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.
Install mechanical components in production equipment.
Design tools, fixtures, or other devices for production equipment.
Diagnose equipment malfunctions.
Dispose of trash or waste materials.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Measure materials to mark reference points, cutting lines, or other indicators.
Disassemble equipment for maintenance or repair.
Replace worn equipment components.
Sort recyclable materials.
Operate welding equipment.
Test materials, solutions, or samples.
Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
Create diagrams or blueprints for workpieces or products.
Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.
Assemble electromechanical or hydraulic systems.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Fixture Maker (Light Fix)
Instrument Maker
Instrument Maker & Repairer
Machinist
Machinist (Alternate Title: Precision Machinist)
Machinist, Automotive
Machinist, Experimental
Machinist, Outside (Ship)
Maintenance Machinist
Rocket Motor Mechanic
Test Tech (Profess & Kin)

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology