Published on Feb 27, 2007

Though a skilled trade, machinists once had to use a lot of their own labor to perform their jobs. Now, thanks to computer automation, this career is less hands-on and faces employee shortages. If you want an interesting, high tech career, training to become a machinist could be a great choice.

Salary Ranges / Job Outlook for Machinists

The employment outlook for machinists is expected to be greater than average over the next eight years. A deficit exists between the number of skilled workers entering the workforce and the number of jobs available. Perception of the industry has reduced the number of students training to be machinists, while demand in the business has picked up after a four year slump.

Wages for machinists are good. The median hourly pay rate is $15.66 with $9.57 per hour being the low end and $23.17 being the high end. Overtime in this industry is common.

Advancement in the metal working industry can take several forms. Since machinists sometimes have to modify the CNC code, some become programmers. Others can become tool and die makers (for mass production of metal parts and tools), while some will move into management or start their own shops.