1.4 What Qualifications Does a Machinist Need?
D.M. Donner
The following list was compiled from machining industry job postings. Not all apply to all positions, but they are all included to provide an understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) employers are looking for.
Some of the qualifications commonly expected by employers include:
- Knowledge of the principles and techniques of machine shop practice.
- Knowledge of the fundamentals of metalworking.
- Knowledge of the methods used in shaping metal to precise dimensions.
- Knowledge of safety practices and procedures followed in machine shop practice.
- Knowledge of the terminology, coding, symbols, and standard abbreviations used in machine shop practice.
- Knowledge of the characteristics and properties of a wide variety of metals and alloys.
- Knowledge of the types and uses of tools, equipment and materials used in machine shop practice.
- Knowledge of the types and uses of precision measuring equipment and devices such as micrometers, calipers, rulers, etc.
- Knowledge of the methods followed in the lubrication of machine shop machinery and equipment.
- Knowledge of the types and uses of small hand tools such as reamers, drills, sanders, taps, dies, etc.
- Knowledge of the types and uses of hand-held power tools such as drills, electric hand saws, etc.
- Skill in using machine shop equipment such as lathes, milling machines, drill presses, bench sanders, etc.
- Skill in the use of precision measuring equipment and devices such as micrometers, calipers, rulers, etc.
- Skill in using small hand tools such as reamers, drills, sanders, taps, dies, etc.
- Skill in using small hand-held power tools such as drills, electric hand saws, etc.
- Ability to understand and apply the policies, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.
- Ability to read and interpret documents such as plans, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.
- Ability to make arithmetical computations with speed and accuracy (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
- Ability to maintain accurate records.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, usually around fifty pounds.
- Ability to work well with others.
- Ability to stand for long periods of time.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment.
- Ability to adjust to changing situations to meet emergencies or changing production requirements.
- Manual dexterity.
- Mechanical aptitude.
Many of these qualifications will be gained from training at a technical or community college. Several additional skills that employers look for are related to individual traits. Examples of desirable traits include being punctual, thorough, respectful, and courteous. Having good communication skills, a desire to learn, and the ability to follow directions are also essential.
Your personal traits, willingness, and desire to perform these tasks cannot be overstated. Many new machinists come into a machining program only to find out they do not enjoy detail-oriented work which requires accurate measuring, recording of precise tolerances, and straining over details to make quality parts.
If you enjoy details, are satisfied by creating varied and intricate parts, and are willing to abide by well-defined processes that ensure accuracy and repeatability, then this may be the job for you.
People come to machining from different backgrounds though similar qualities make this field a good fit for them. Mechanics who love to rebuild motors and transmissions and build unique cars and trucks often find themselves working in a machine shop.
Designers who want to have complete control over the manufacturing process from concept through manufacture find a home in the machining industry because they can dream of a part, model a part in CAD software, and then use their skills to manufacture that part.