Machinist Jobs | Monster.com

Machinist jobs are an indispensable part of the production process. Through blueprints and computer applications, they design, build, and operate heavy machinery used in manufacturing, typically for the production of precision instruments and tools. Without their technological aptitude and mechanical knowledge, the supply chain would break instantly and companies would not be able to continue producing for consumers.

Machinists operate heavy machinery with the use of trade-specific software applications. They also monitor and fix issues surrounding the machine's hardware or software as they arise and are often given the opportunity to participate in different parts of the production process if the company's schedule calls for it.

If you enjoy working with equipment like lathes, saws, and mills and have an affinity for staying up to date with the latest technology, this position is definitely worth considering. At the end of the day, machinist jobs are labor intensive and hands-on and typically come with many benefits like paid holidays, 401ks, and health insurance.

If operating heavy machinery sounds interesting to you but you aren't quite sold on the other aspects of being a machinist, you can always look for similar positions. Similar production jobs, include:

Machinist Training and Skills

It doesn't require years of formal education to get started as a machinist. Most employers will ask candidates to have a GED or high school diploma, as well as the ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

Some companies provide on-the-job training or apprenticeships that can last about a year, while others look for candidates who attended specialized programs at community colleges or technical schools. Whichever route you choose, you'll learn how to read and design blueprints, how to operate welding and cutting tools, and how to use computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines.

Recruiters look for candidates who possess strong oral and written communication skills and display some degree of technical know-how. Mathematical, analytical, and mechanical skills are also essential to success as a machinist.

Update Your Machinist Resume

How many different versions of your resume do you have on file? By tailoring your resume to each specific job application, you can highlight different aspects of your skills, qualifications, and employment history that directly relate to the position you're applying for. Check out Monster's resume samples to learn how to get started making your own. While most machinist job applications don't require a cover letter, some do. Just in case your employer asks you to submit one, Monster has a variety of cover letter samples that you can use as inspiration.

How Much Do Machinist Jobs Pay?

Knowing how much your position pays is key when it comes to negotiating with your potential employer. The median pay for machinists in the U.S. is $21.60 per hour. That said, salaries may differ slightly depending on the company you work for or the area where you're based. Use Monster's Salary Tools to figure out how much you're worth where you live.

Want to Learn More About a Company You're Interested In?

Every company uses different types of machinery, meaning the responsibilities of machinists can vary depending on the industry they work in. In order to find out whether you're a good fit for the companies you're applying for, take a look at Monster's company profiles. There, you'll find specific information about individual businesses, including:

Number of employees.
Corporate history.
Locations.

Create a Monster Account to Get Free Alerts for Machinist Jobs

Ready to find out what kinds of machinist jobs are out there? Monster is here to guide the way. On our website, you can find job openings for machinists around the country. Create a free Monster profile, and we'll send personalized job alerts straight to your inbox and connect you with recruiters who are actively hiring for jobs in your area.