Set up and operate machine tools to produce precision metal parts to print. Machinists work from engineering drawings to mill, turn and finish components.
Read blueprints, set up CNC or manual machines, choose cutting tools, measure parts with precision instruments and adjust machining programs or feeds.
Machine shops and manufacturing plants with noise, metal chips and machining fluids. Work is usually shop-based with regular safety and cleanliness standards.
Standing for long periods, handling metal parts, and precise hand work. Heavy lifting is moderate but common for larger parts.
Lathes, milling machines, CNC controllers, micrometers, calipers, surface plates, tooling, cutters and CAD/CAM software in modern shops.
Ideal for people who like detailed, precise work, problem-solving with tooling and producing repeatable, high-quality components.
Apprenticeship (typically 3–4 years) or college diploma routes; Red Seal coverage exists in many provinces. Advanced CNC skills often require extra training.
Learn shop safety, basic machine setup, manual machining tasks, measurement tools and assist with simple production work while attending school blocks.
Trades college programs, employer apprenticeships, or starting as a machine-shop helper and progressing into apprenticeship.
Stable manufacturing demand, specialization into CNC programming, high skill premiums for precise and complex work, and potential for toolmaking or inspection roles.
Shop environments can be noisy and require strict PPE. Continuous learning needed for CNC and CAD/CAM; some roles require overtime in production cycles.
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