what does a machinist do?

Some of the tasks of a machinist include: interpreting technical specifications and blueprints: as a machinist, you interpret designs and specifications to determine the structure and dimensions of various machine parts. You use blueprints to create accurate parts of equipment or machinery. Interpreting technical drawings also helps you understand the client's requirements and ensure the quality of your finished products. operating machinery: you operate machines that shape and harness resources like steel and plastic. Precision cutting machines include grinders and mills. You check the machinery before operating the equipment and determine how well the parts fit into the machine's existing structure. You also test its performance before producing the metal parts. editing programs in the machines: software programs are useful in monitoring and controlling manufacturing and machine operations. As a machinist, you require knowledge in editing and writing machinery software. The programs are usually simple and may require slight modifications to accommodate the client's requirements. Understanding basic programming helps you operate CNC machinery. You can also automate various manufacturing process components by adjusting the software applications. monitoring the manufacturing process: as a machinist, you monitor the manufacturing process to ensure productivity. For example, you define the project requirements from the blueprints and monitor the resources used to complete projects. Your duties include marking materials and ensuring accurate cuts. You also feed materials into the relevant machines. following safety precautions: as a machinist, you work with heavy-duty machines, so it is important to maintain health and safety regulations. You ensure everyone wears protective equipment and that all safety requirements are adhered to.

who are your colleagues?

Machinists work in different industries and collaborate with various professionals. For instance, you work with production supervisors , mechanical engineers and machine operators . You work with welders and warehouse associates when sourcing raw materials for the production processes. You also interact with HR managers and other employees who oversee the production process.

machinist work schedule

As a full-time machinist, you work 40 hours a week with occasional overtime hours to meet production schedules and lighten the workload. You may also work weekends or public holidays to cover gaps in the production schedule. Big companies often run scheduled shifts to ensure 24-hour operations.

career opportunities as a machinist

Machinists start in an entry-level position, such as a machine setter or machinist apprentice. When you complete the necessary certification, you will be a certified machinist. You have multiple areas of specialization. For instance, you can be a machine operator, maintenance technician or tool and die maker.

advantages of finding a job as a machinist through randstad

Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits. always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from many training opportunities a range of jobs in your area

how much do machinists make in Canada?

As a machinist, you earn an average salary of $48,750 annually. When you are new in the role, your salary starts at $42,900 yearly. The most experienced workers receive a salary of over $63,580 per year. Your earnings depend on your qualifications and expertise. For example, a machinist with trade certification earns more than those with an apprenticeship.

what are the job duties of a machinist?

As a machinist, you operate CNC machinery to cut precision parts for tools, machines or instruments. You use a variety of tools, including lathes and milling machines, to produce precision parts. You also repair and produce parts using automated equipment with precise measurements. Other duties include maintaining machines and repairing minor equipment damages.

is being a machinist a difficult job?

aWorking as a machinist is a challenging job, and you are likely to face various issues on the job. For instance, if a machine is not set up correctly, the machine can get jammed up during production. You also face challenges when your tools wear down because of repeated production runs. Despite the many challenges, it is a great career that you can excel in with great planning.

what education do you need to be a machinist?

You require an apprenticeship program to become a machinist in Canada. A machinist apprenticeship takes four years, and you'll learn many on-the-job skills to improve your expertise in the role. In some Canadian regions, trade certification is required to work as a machinist.

Which sectors do machinists work in?

As a machinist, you are likely to work in the manufacturing sector. Additionally, you can work in vehicle assembly, aircraft manufacturing or metal and fabrication industries.

how do I find a job as a machinist?

Finding a job near you as a machinist is easy. Search our job offers . Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.

machinist

what is a machinist?

If you enjoy crafting useful items and working with your hands, consider becoming a machinist. You use computers and mechanical technology to create precision metal tools. You set up and operate various machine tools to grind metals and cut or modify parts to precise dimensions. Sometimes, you cut plastics and other materials to make them suit the parts of a machine.

You read or interpret sketches and computer-aided design files daily in order to understand the measurements of precision tools. You also set up tools and inspect machine parts to uphold the quality of the final product. At the end of the machining process, you smooth down any imperfections from the cutting process to ensure it meets the quality control standards.

As a machinist, you work in food processing plants, machinery companies and automotive production lines, among other kinds of manufacturing companies. Due to the precision required for machining processes, you should have exceptional attention to detail. Physical mobility is also important, as you frequently lift heavy objects and handle production requirements.

Would working as a machinist suit your attention to detail? Are you interested in working with your hands? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a machinist role.

machinist roles

1

average machinist salary

According to Job Bank, machinists in Canada receive a salary of $48,750 per year. This wage is equivalent to roughly $25 per hour. Entry-level positions attract a lower salary due to the minimal experience involved. The lowest-paying positions attract earnings of $42,900 yearly. With additional expertise, you earn $63,580 per year.

how to increase the salary of a machinist

As a machinist, your earnings depend on your experience and qualifications. Entry-level roles attract a lower salary due to minimal expertise and skills. Working additional years boosts your expertise and skills, increasing your earning potential. Specializing in a particular area of expertise also increases your earnings.

The industry you work in affects your earnings. Working as a machinist for an aircraft manufacturing company pays more than working for a metal manufacturing plant. The complexity of the duties in the industry warrants higher hourly rates. Working for a large company also increases your earning because they have more resources and can afford to pay higher salaries.

Working in large cities with major industries usually increases your salary potential due to the high demand for machinists. The region also influences your earnings. For instance, working in British Columbia or Alberta attracts a higher salary than a machinist working in Nova Scotia.

download our salary guide

2

types of machinists

Some of the types of machinists include:

automotive machinists: as an automotive machinist, you create or repair vehicle parts. You use machines to shape metals for repairs. You also resurface and renovate components. Since you work in the automotive industry, you create vehicle parts and enhance their performance.
computer numerical control (CNC) machinists: as a CNC machinist, you program machines to perform the required tasks. Your job involves maintaining and calibrating CNC equipment to meet the product specifications.
gear machinists: as a machinist, you perform repetitive machining operations. Using computer-controlled precision tools, you are involved in milling, turning and drilling machine parts.
maintenance machinists: you perform maintenance tasks on tools for cutting or grinding metal and modifying parts. You also clean the equipment and ensure correct calibrations to make quality parts.

Factory worker operating a column drill. African-American man wearing safety goggles. Primary color blue.

3

working as a machinist

As a machinist, you set up and operate various machine tools. If you are interested in the role, check out the tasks and work environment of a machinist.

what does a machinist do?
Some of the tasks of a machinist include:
- interpreting technical specifications and blueprints: as a machinist, you interpret designs and specifications to determine the structure and dimensions of various machine parts. You use blueprints to create accurate parts of equipment or machinery. Interpreting technical drawings also helps you understand the client's requirements and ensure the quality of your finished products.
- operating machinery: you operate machines that shape and harness resources like steel and plastic. Precision cutting machines include grinders and mills. You check the machinery before operating the equipment and determine how well the parts fit into the machine's existing structure. You also test its performance before producing the metal parts.
- editing programs in the machines: software programs are useful in monitoring and controlling manufacturing and machine operations. As a machinist, you require knowledge in editing and writing machinery software. The programs are usually simple and may require slight modifications to accommodate the client's requirements. Understanding basic programming helps you operate CNC machinery. You can also automate various manufacturing process components by adjusting the software applications.
- monitoring the manufacturing process: as a machinist, you monitor the manufacturing process to ensure productivity. For example, you define the project requirements from the blueprints and monitor the resources used to complete projects. Your duties include marking materials and ensuring accurate cuts. You also feed materials into the relevant machines.
- following safety precautions: as a machinist, you work with heavy-duty machines, so it is important to maintain health and safety regulations. You ensure everyone wears protective equipment and that all safety requirements are adhered to.
work environment of a machinist

As a machinist, you work in manufacturing plants and assembly companies. You typically work indoors, including machine shops and climate-controlled manufacturing areas. The work environment is noisy, and you'll sometimes be exposed to unpleasant odours. Potential hazards in the work environment include physical injuries and machinery-related accidents. Ensure you wear protective equipment and follow the safety procedures. The role of a machinist also involves lifting moderately heavy objects. However, many companies are introducing autoloaders and overhead cranes to minimize the lifting of heavy objects.
who are your colleagues?

Machinists work in different industries and collaborate with various professionals. For instance, you work with production supervisors, mechanical engineers and machine operators. You work with welders and warehouse associates when sourcing raw materials for the production processes. You also interact with HR managers and other employees who oversee the production process.
machinist work schedule

As a full-time machinist, you work 40 hours a week with occasional overtime hours to meet production schedules and lighten the workload. You may also work weekends or public holidays to cover gaps in the production schedule. Big companies often run scheduled shifts to ensure 24-hour operations.
career opportunities as a machinist

Machinists start in an entry-level position, such as a machine setter or machinist apprentice. When you complete the necessary certification, you will be a certified machinist. You have multiple areas of specialization. For instance, you can be a machine operator, maintenance technician or tool and die maker.
advantages of finding a job as a machinist through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area

4

machinist skills and education

Some of the educational requirements of machinists in Canada include:

apprenticeship program: when you complete your secondary school studies, you can pursue your career as a machinist. Complete a four-year apprenticeship that involves on-the-job training and machinery courses. Additionally, you may be required to complete machining industry courses.
trade certification: to work as a machinist in Canada, you may need trade certification from a regulatory body. Machinist trade certifications are available but voluntary in all provinces and territories. For instance, in British Columbia, you should complete a certification course from the Industry Training Authority. Hence, find out if the occupation is regulated in your province and then determine the requirements to obtain certification.

competencies and characteristics of machinists

Some of the qualities of a machinist include:

knowledge of mechanics: as a machinist, you require extensive knowledge of mechanical processes, configurations and theories. Your knowledge of mechanics helps you interpret the contents of blueprints and technical drawings. Your deep understanding of machines improves your expertise in technical processes like laser cutting, drilling, and metal forming.
consistency: as a machinist, you are expected to maintain a high level of quality in your finished products. It is important to remain consistent with expected quality standards. Your ability to maintain the optimal performance of machines ensures that product standards are always met. Consistently learning helps you quickly adapt to ever-changing methodologies.
attention to detail: as a machinist, you need high-quality results to ensure the metal parts suit the intricate parts of the machines. You also require attention to detail to set the equipment and program or calibrate the machinery to ensure quality end products.
physical strength: as a machinist, the physical aspect of your role involves lifting heavy equipment. Physical stamina is also important, as you often stand for extended periods and conduct physically demanding tasks.

5

FAQs

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a machinist.

how much do machinists make in Canada?

As a machinist, you earn an average salary of $48,750 annually. When you are new in the role, your salary starts at $42,900 yearly. The most experienced workers receive a salary of over $63,580 per year. Your earnings depend on your qualifications and expertise. For example, a machinist with trade certification earns more than those with an apprenticeship.
what are the job duties of a machinist?

As a machinist, you operate CNC machinery to cut precision parts for tools, machines or instruments. You use a variety of tools, including lathes and milling machines, to produce precision parts. You also repair and produce parts using automated equipment with precise measurements. Other duties include maintaining machines and repairing minor equipment damages.
is being a machinist a difficult job?

aWorking as a machinist is a challenging job, and you are likely to face various issues on the job. For instance, if a machine is not set up correctly, the machine can get jammed up during production. You also face challenges when your tools wear down because of repeated production runs. Despite the many challenges, it is a great career that you can excel in with great planning.
what education do you need to be a machinist?

You require an apprenticeship program to become a machinist in Canada. A machinist apprenticeship takes four years, and you'll learn many on-the-job skills to improve your expertise in the role. In some Canadian regions, trade certification is required to work as a machinist.
Which sectors do machinists work in?

As a machinist, you are likely to work in the manufacturing sector. Additionally, you can work in vehicle assembly, aircraft manufacturing or metal and fabrication industries.
how do I find a job as a machinist?

Finding a job near you as a machinist is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.

6

meet a recruiter

Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.