Machinist

Manufacturing and machining professionals in the energy sector produce and refine precision metal components used in systems such as power generation, renewable energy equipment, and industrial infrastructure. They set up and operate advanced machine tools to fabricate, modify, and repair parts, while applying knowledge of mechanics, materials, and machining processes. These roles also involve improving manufacturing systems and collaborating with engineers and designers to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure components meet the performance demands of modern energy technologies.

Career Snapshot:

Wage Text Here

per year*

Entry to Senior Level

Manufacturing & Industrial Systems

*Estimates are not to be used as fact. Based on publicly available sources.

The Path to Becoming

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Machinist

Step 1

Earn

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High School Diploma or GED

Resources:

Inland Career Education Center

Inland Adult Education Consortium

Southwest Riverside Adult Education

Step 2

Earn a Postsecondary Certificate

Required Training:

Standards Occupational Classifications (SOC) code

SOC 51-4041

Training Programs and Resources:

Conventional Machine Operator Certificate

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Norco College

Machine Operator Apprenticeship

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Norco College

Machinist Technology

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San Bernardino Valley College

CNC Machinist

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Copper Mountain College

Certified Manufacturing Associate

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Copper Mountain College

CNC Machinist

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CSU San Bernardino Extended Learning

Manual Machinist

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CSU San Bernardino Extended Learning

Certified Manufacturing Associate

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CSU San Bernardino Extended Learning

Certified Manufacturing Technologist

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CSU San Bernardino Extended Learning

Courses

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Technical Employment Training Inc.

Step 3

Find a position or apprenticeship

Required Training:

This career typically involves

More than 1 year on-the-job training

A Day in the Life

As

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Machinist

you can expect to perform these tasks frequently:

Set up, program, and operate machine tools (eg. CNC) to produce precision parts to exact specifications. Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering data to determine machining methods and production sequences. Monitor machine performance, feeds, and speeds to ensure efficient and accurate manufacturing operations. Inspect, measure, and test finished components using precision instruments to ensure quality and compliance. Troubleshoot equipment, material, or process issues and determine root causes of defects or inefficiencies.

Required skills:

What It Takes

Machinist

often have these skills:

Operation and Control

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Controlling operations of equipment or systems, including tools, machinery, and processes.

Critical Thinking

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Using logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of solutions and decide the best approach.

Operations Monitoring

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Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine or system is working correctly.

Active Listening

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Giving full attention to what others are saying, taking time to understand, and asking questions as appropriate.

Complex Problem Solving

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Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Coordination

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Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions and working effectively with team members.

Quality Control Analysis

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Conducting tests and inspections to evaluate quality or performance of products, services, or systems.

Troubleshooting

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Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about them.

Find careers that fit your skillset

Career Outlook

3104

Employees in

2022

3191

Employees in

2027

+

3%

Projected
Growth Rate

352

Annual Projected
Job Openings

Related Occupations

Other paths to consider:

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Machinist

Career Snapshot:

The Path to Becoming

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