Machinists are tasked with utilizing several different types of machine tools operated by computers and mechanical components with the intention of manufacturing tools, instruments and metal parts. They do this through the use of CAD and CAM files, blueprints and drawings.
There are specific skills you’ll want to draw attention to in your machinist job description to boost your chances of finding the right candidates. Such skills include the necessary mechanical ability and knowledge, math skills, the manual dexterity necessary to use various tools, and the ability to comprehend models, specifications and blueprints.
Additionally, machinists should be able to endure lengthy work shifts standing on their feet for long periods of time. Be sure to take in the details mentioned in the machinist job description template below for a solid idea of what to include in your very own description.
Machinist Job Summary
Do you enjoy working with your hands, being creative and discovering solutions? Take your precise mechanical skills to the next level as our new machinist. You have the opportunity to create, repair and modify our line of mechanical instruments, sometimes with parts you make with your years of experience. We will depend on your knowledge of metal properties, mathematics, mechanics and machining operations to keep our operations running smoothly and on time. Take advantage of your careful eye for detail and generous knowledge of machines and technology that powers them. If you have the skills necessary to take the next step in your career and improve our company at the same time, we look forward to hearing from you.
Job Responsibilities
- Use computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing files to complete your necessary job duties on a daily basis
- Set up, use and take apart machine tools, including those that are automatic and manual
- Secure, set up and adjust workpieces and cutting tools throughout your shift to ensure precision and adhere to safety protocols and regulations
- Smooth over the surfaces of products and parts as needed to ensure high-quality final results
- Use all necessary specifications to drill, mill, turn, grind and shape mechanical parts
- Check all completed machine components for defects, and make all necessary modifications before approving them
- Keep a close and careful eye on the overall speed and feed of the machines throughout your shift in an effort to reduce accidents, ensure product is of the right quality and maintain optimum machine operation
- Present all fully completed workpieces to quality assurance to make sure they are in line with the company’s standards and the necessary specifications
Job Skills & Qualifications
Reqiured:
- Completion of a machinist apprenticeship program
- Familiar with common safety and protective equipment
- Knowledge of working with hazardous equipment
- Knowledge of such tools as calipers, hammers, drill presses, horizontal turning centers and height gauges
Preferred
- A high school diploma or its equivalent
- Highly developed written and verbal communication skills
- Completion of a recognized certification program
Machinist Job Responsibilities
When working on your machinist job description, you’ll find that the job responsibilities section is the weightiest, so prepare to devote a lot of your time to it. This is the area of your listing where jobseekers will go to determine whether they are suitable for the position. Use language that is easy-to-understand, and thoroughly explain the duties so candidates are clear about your expectations. If you do this well, you’ll reduce the number of unqualified individuals applying to your machinist job description, but you’ll encourage qualified candidates.
It is best to use a bullet point format to outline the job responsibilities you expect. This makes it easier for jobseekers to recognize specific duties and determine whether they like the job. Be sure that each point starts with an action verb, and narrow your choice of tasks to between six and eight. Rather than overwhelming candidates with a long list of duties, select those that set this position apart from others.
Here are a few good examples of common machinist job responsibilities:
- Complete calculations quickly, such as dimensions and tolerances of materials
- Use machine tools, such as lathes and shapers, to machine parts
- Examine and assess completed units to detect defects; ensure conformity with specifications
- Program machining equipment, such as lathes, mills and grinders
- Maintain safe operation of equipment by adhering to safety protocols and regulations
Machinist Job Specifications
The job qualifications and skills section of your machinist job description may seem simple to create, but don’t underestimate it. The job specifications are important because they provide information candidates need to determine whether they fit your picture of an ideal candidate.
Think of the job responsibilities section as the place where applicants decide if they are willing to offer the services you desire, and the job qualifications and skills section as the place where applicants determine their level of qualification. If you’ve done a good job writing your list of machinist job specifications, unqualified jobseekers will recognize their lack of skills and look for work elsewhere. If the section isn’t clearly worded, you may find that your hiring managers have to sift through many applications from unqualified candidates.
You can work with your hiring personnel to avoid this situation. Discuss essential and bonus skills before you post your job listing. Clearly list the requirements separate from the bonus specifications. This makes it easier for jobseekers to determine their suitability for the job.
Read through some examples of qualifications and skills to get ideas for your machinist job description:
- Verifiable experience as a machinist
- Familiarity with automated tools and machines, such as lathes and grinders
- Ability to take accurate measurements with specialized tools, such as calipers
- Understanding of blueprints, manuals and schematics
- Physical strength and stamina to handle heavy items
- High school diploma, GED or equivalent