Machinists Go Back to List Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. 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.

Technology used in this occupation:
	Computer aided design CAD software

Tasks
	Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
	Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
	Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
	Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
	Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.
	Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
	Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
	Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.
	Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.
	Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.

Skills
	Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
	Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
	Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
	Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
	Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
	Active Listening - 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.
	Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
	Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
	Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
	Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Knowledge
	Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
	Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
	Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
	English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
	Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
	Engineering and Technology - 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.
	Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
	Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
	Customer and Personal Service - 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.
	Administration and Management - 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.

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Education & Training   Education:   Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.   Related Experience:   Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

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Wage Information
	Region Average Entry Level  Mid-Range  Annual  Hourly  Statewide $62,369.00 $29.98  $21.10  $23.61 - $36.62  Bridgeport/Stamford $66,445.00 $31.94  $21.66  $23.57 - $37.60  Danbury $56,690.00 $27.26  $19.88  $22.07 - $30.84  Hartford $62,079.00 $29.84  $21.47  $23.84 - $37.09  New Haven $62,214.00 $29.91  $21.37  $23.95 - $35.21  New London/Norwich $63,403.00 $30.49  $22.40  $23.73 - $36.62  Waterbury $53,959.00 $25.94  $15.38  $15.36 - $31.11  Torrington $59,007.00 $28.37  $20.56  $23.03 - $31.02

Occupation Outlook ( 2016 - 2026 ) Average Annual Job Openings:   840   Employment in this occupation is expected to grow more slowly than average, and the number of annual openings will offer limited job opportunities.

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	Some of the occupational information on this page is formulated from O*NETTM v17.0 data. O*NETTM is a trademark of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.