A machinist, also known as a machine builder, is a person who assembles, repairs, and maintains machinery for various purposes. This individual is typically employed in manufacturing or industrial settings, and he or she may be responsible for creating parts from scratch for a specific machine. Although a high school diploma is not required, most employers prefer a builder who has completed at least a high school education. Other credentials, such as an associate’s degree or a professional certificate, may be required, though many builders prefer to learn on the job through an apprenticeship program.
To work as a machine builder, you must be able to use complex machinery to cut, shape, extrude, or otherwise manipulate materials. Moderate math skills are also essential for the machine builder, as he or she will need to create functional machines by building parts to very specific specifications. After the parts are made, the builder must put the machine together and test its functionality. To ensure the machine’s longevity, the builder may be required to perform routine maintenance as well as complex repairs over the course of its life.
A machine builder will be standing, bending, or otherwise moving for the majority of the day. Because many of the parts in a machine can be extremely heavy, the builder will need to be in good physical shape and capable of doing some heavy lifting. Working on machines can be dangerous, so safety training will be required. Safety equipment such as goggles, hard hats, and ear plugs must be worn whenever a machine is running or the builder is in the vicinity of a functioning workspace, and first aid and CPR training are frequently required for machine builders.