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Machinist

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April 13, 2024 Updated April 22, 2025 18 minute read

Career Profile: Machinist

A machinist is a skilled tradesperson who sets up and operates a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts, instruments, and tools, primarily from metal. They interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine the correct sequence of operations and machine setup. This involves precise calculation, careful measurement, and a deep understanding of material properties and machining processes.

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Salaries for Machinist

City
Median
New York
$95,000
San Francisco
$106,000
Seattle
$109,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$95,000
San Francisco
$106,000
Seattle
$109,000
Austin
$68,000
Toronto
$66,000
London
£45,000
Paris
€71,000
Berlin
€72,000
Tel Aviv
₪39,000
Singapore
S$15,000
Beijing
¥108,000
Shanghai
¥120,000
Shenzhen
¥180,000
Bengalaru
₹420,000
Delhi
₹260,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to Machinist

Take the first step.
We've curated ten courses to help you on your path to Machinist. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
Sorted from most relevant to least relevant:

Reading list

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A comprehensive reference book that provides detailed information on all aspects of machining. It includes tables, charts, and formulas.
Considered a classic and a must-read reference for anyone in machining or mechanical engineering. This handbook is an extensive resource covering a vast range of topics including machining data, standards, and practices. It is more of a reference tool than a线性 textbook, suitable for all levels from students to professionals.
Provides a balanced and qualitative examination of traditional and modern manufacturing processes, including machining. It covers materials, methods, and systems, making it an excellent resource for gaining a broad understanding. It is often used as a textbook in undergraduate engineering programs.
Provides a comprehensive overview of apprenticeships, including their history, benefits, and challenges. It also discusses different models of apprenticeship and how they can be implemented in various industries.
A comprehensive handbook serving as a key reference for manufacturing engineers and technicians. It covers a broad spectrum of manufacturing topics, with detailed sections on machining and related processes. This valuable resource for professionals.
A textbook that provides a detailed overview of the various types of machine tools and their operations. It includes chapters on turning, milling, drilling, and grinding.
A comprehensive textbook that covers the theoretical and practical aspects of machining. It includes chapters on cutting tools, cutting fluids, and machining processes.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of turning. It covers topics such as the mechanics of cutting, the selection of cutting tools, and the design of turning machines.
Provides a global perspective on apprenticeships. Examines the benefits of apprenticeships for individuals, employers, and economies. Offers policy guidance for governments and social partners on promoting and supporting apprenticeships.
Focusing specifically on the setup and operation of CNC machines for milling and turning, this book provides practical tips and techniques for optimizing machine performance. It valuable resource for those looking to deepen their practical CNC knowledge.
This practical guide offers valuable insights, tips, and techniques for improving machining skills and efficiency in a CNC machine shop environment. It's a good supplementary read for gaining practical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.
A strong understanding of GD&T is critical for interpreting engineering drawings and ensuring manufactured parts meet specifications. fundamental resource for anyone in machining who needs to work with technical drawings.
This introductory text is suitable for those with no prior machining experience. It covers fundamental machining principles and CNC operations, making it a good starting point for gaining a broad understanding. It is designed to support various career paths in machining.
A comprehensive reference guide covering a wide array of manufacturing processes. is useful for gaining both broad knowledge and as a reference tool for specific processes, including various machining operations.
A textbook that covers the fundamental principles of machining processes. It includes chapters on cutting tool materials, cutting parameters, and machine tools.
A textbook that covers the machining of advanced materials. It includes chapters on the different techniques used to machine advanced materials, such as carbon fiber composites and titanium alloys.
A widely recommended book for learning fundamental machine shop practices, including milling. It provides practical insights into various machining processes and is suitable for beginners and those seeking a solid foundation in traditional machining before moving to CNC.
Focuses on the programming and operation of CNC machines used in turning. It covers topics such as tool path generation, G-code programming, and advanced machining techniques.
A textbook that covers the latest developments in machining technology. It includes chapters on non-traditional machining processes, such as laser cutting and EDM.
Continuing from Volume 1, this book further explores machine shop practices with more advanced topics. It is valuable for deepening understanding of conventional machining techniques which are foundational to CNC machining.
Provides a detailed analysis of the apprenticeship system in the Philippines. Identifies key challenges and opportunities for improving the quality and relevance of apprenticeship training. Offers recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.
Provides employers with everything they need to know about starting and managing an apprenticeship program. It covers topics such as developing a curriculum, recruiting apprentices, and providing on-the-job training.
An introductory textbook that covers the basic principles of machining. It includes chapters on cutting tools, cutting fluids, and machining processes.
A textbook that provides an introduction to machining technology. It includes chapters on the different types of machining processes, machine tools, and cutting tools.
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