Machinist Archives - East Valley Precision

Before we get straight into the pros and cons – it is best to initially get a clear notion of what a Machinist is and what they do. It is quite a general term – anyone that uses ‘operates a machine’ – nevertheless, specifically it’s a tradesperson that is required when a particular part needs creating from the means of a particular material (typically metal, wood or possibly plastic) that required cutting manually via a machine.

Now that we have got a better notion on the general view of what Machinist do, let’s take a closer look at some of their pros and cons:

Advantages of Being a Machinist

Let’s discover some of the benefits with the below open ended list:

“Work with your hands”

There is a particular rewarding factor in working with your hands for creating something of value. You see a tangible outcome out your own work that companies and others can benefit from that usually get lost with other jobs. If you are very practical and visually minded this should be a factor that you are going to find rather rewarding out of the job.

Job Growth Demand

Over the period of 2018 to 2028 it has been reported there is going to be a correlated increase in need for Machinists by up to 3%. So, you are going to be getting into an increasing market over the next ten years with the possibility of the skillset being a progressively technical and technological advancement. This has been indicated with the introduction of CNC in which computer literacy is required and electronics are required to comprehend the way it functions.

Career Advancement

Consider a lot of the recommended beginning salaries and how they progress as you go with the profession. You are going to see there are a lot of chances to ‘get paid to learn’ in addition to then advance on to increasing salaries with a growth in responsibilities and know-how. If you concentrate on the job and skills that are needed it is not impossible to get salaries in the 6-figure range.

Leading Technology

One other great advantage of working as a machinist (specifically at competitive and lean companies) is that you are going to be likely working literally – forget the pun – with state-of-the-art technology and machinery. Therefore, if you see yourself as somewhat of a techn-oisseur then you are going to be seeing some of the best tech savvy machinery on the planet and what they are capable of manufacturing and you being the go-to individual to use them.

You Work Inside

Unlike a lot of similar reasonable jobs that additionally operate basic machinery and other aspects, they usually work outdoors a lot in addition to being on their travels. This could very well be a disadvantage for you; however, it is definitely an advantage if you are one who likes staying warm and dry as they operate and start working.

Disadvantages of Becoming a Machinist

Now let’s find out some of the cons from the following list:

Hours

Generally speaking, you are going to find that most jobs just require you to work typical 40-hour shifts, however, you are going to find that jobs are increasingly wanting more hours from you and to cover weekends in addition to some late shifts. This is perfect if you don’t mind the extra work with more money, but some wish to have a limited amount of time at work and have a good balance of work and personal time that this job can oftentimes impede on.

Salary

It all boils down to the way you look at it but overall (particularly as you begin) Machinists aren’t going to get an excessive starting salary. Even so, this is more about the company you begin working for and what they are offering. Make sure to completely explore your options and decide if this is path that is worth it for you in the future. You could very well turn this con into a pro.

Training

There is a lot more to it than you believe, this is a skill that requires time and development. You certainly just won’t pick it up and there is a reason the most knowledgeable machinists earn higher salaries. Nevertheless, as with most trade positions, you should notice a bump in salary as you advance with qualifications in addition to racking up more experience (you might have to venture forth to various companies in order to achieve that).

Working Inside

Obviously, subject to how you like to work – the fact that you could spend a significant amount of your time not seeing the world could be something that you don’t wish for. Therefore, it would be a con to stay inside, usually working in a likewise sort of area each time.

Problem Solving

This goes additionally both ways; you are going to ask to get to oftentimes perform tasks that are somewhat complex and you are going to require a problem-solving mentality to overcome them. This once more breaks down to mindset, if you like challenges that you can resolve both physically, mentally, and wisely you are going to thrive. If this sort of route is not what you are wanting, then that could pose a problem.

East Valley Precision – Custom Machinery Specialists

East Valley Precision offers custom CNC Machining in the Chandler, Arizona and surrounding areas. When you need precision CNC machining and milling contact East Valley Precision. Call us at 480-288-6601 for more information or use our form for a quote.

Machinists work in machine shops and manufacturing areas for creating precision tools and components for mechanical devices and items. This post is going to cover what machinists do in their day-to-day jobs and the overall view of being one.

What Is a Machinist?

A machinist is an experienced tradesman with the proficiency and knowledge for creating tools, parts, and items by operating milling and drilling machines, grinding machines, routers, and lathes in a machine shop. It is an extremely precise occupation, requiring the machinist to make cuts to at least 0.001 of an inch. Machinists are in high demand and start working in entry-level positions and apprenticeships. They can learn to become a machinist at work in real time or in a trade school.

What Do Machinists Do?

Machinists use machining devices for producing precise components. They run equipment like mills, lathes, drills, and grinders to manufacture items, ranging from straightforward components found in motorcycle frames to something more complex such as a part for a vehicle engine. Overall, a machinist’s job requires them to fabricate, alter, or repair mechanical items. As a result, they must have a viable knowledge of mathematics, mechanics, properties of metals, and machining.

Are Machinists in High Demand?

Experienced and proficient machinists are highly desirable tradesmen. There are a lot of job opportunities in transportation, utilitarian, and military sectors. Whereas mass-produced components are more common presently, machinists are still necessary for installing and calibrating the components. This is all the more obvious for custom machined parts. As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of machinists is expected to grow 3% in the next 10 years. CNC machining is a particularly significant and necessary occupation. As long as mechanical components operate with joints, valves, and bearings, machinists are going to be necessary.

How To Become a Machinist

It takes around 4 to 5 years for machinists to become completely trained. It is typical for machinists to train while working in a machine shop; however, trade schools also provide machining degrees. The only degree usually required of machinists is a high school diploma or GED. Once they have that, they can become a machinist via apprenticeship programs, trade schools, or community college courses. Whereas some machinists hold an associate degree in the industry, it is not necessarily needed.

Machinist FAQs

The following are some general frequently asked questions concerning machinists.

How Much Does a Machinist Make?

As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, machinists can bring in an average of around $50,000 a year or $23.00 by the hour. Proficient machinists that work in military and utility companies can make over $100,000 annually.

Is Machinist a Good Career?

With a miniscule barrier of entry, high apprenticeship income, and positive job perspective, a career as a machinist is a perfect opportunity. Learning to be a machinist requires dedication; however, it is a rewarding and exciting profession.

What Is A CNC Machinist?

CNC is an acronym for Computerized Numerical Control and a computerized manufacturing method with pre-programmed coding that controls equipment. These machinists run heavy machinery for cutting, grinding, and drilling into materials to manufacture precision parts. CNC machinists oversee the machines’ speed, patterns, materials, and programs to guarantee the highest degree of precision.

Is Being a Machinist Tense?

Machining can be a tense occupation, as it requires extremely high precision and meticulous attention to detail. Consequently, safety in a machine shop is of the highest degree of importance. CNN named machining as one of the top 10 most hazardous occupations in the US. Accidents do happen, however, can be avoided with precise attention and equipment maintenance.