# Machinist jobs and career guide

Category: Welding & Metal
Page: https://toolupjobs.com/trades/machinist/
Also called: CNC machinist, CNC operator, tool and die maker, CNC programmer, machine operator

Machinists set up and run manual and CNC lathes and mills to make precision metal parts.

## Typical US pay
$40k–$85k per year (approximate, entry level to experienced).

## What they do
- Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes
- Read drawings and GD&T callouts
- Measure parts with micrometers and CMMs
- Edit G-code and optimize cycle times

## Key skills
- CNC setup
- G-code
- GD&T
- Precision measurement
- Mastercam

## Training
Community college machining program or 4-year apprenticeship.

## Licensing & certifications
No license; NIMS credentials are valued.

## Open jobs (0)
None posted right now.