Machinists
O*NET 51-4041.00 · SOC 51-4041
Machinist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $59k a year with +1% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 26,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Set up and operate lathes, mills, and grinders
- →Read blueprints to determine machining specifications and tolerances
- →Measure finished parts using micrometers, calipers, and gauges
- →Select cutting tools and adjust machine speeds and feeds
- →Inspect machined parts to ensure they meet dimensional requirements
Education & How to Get In
Most Machinist positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Machinist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Machinist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Machinist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Machinists is projected to grow 1% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Machinist make?
The median Machinist earns $59k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Machinist jobs?
Our model puts Machinist at 42 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Machinist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 26,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Machinist?
Most Machinist roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Machinist?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Machinist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →No account required · Matches are paid · 7 minutes