Job Description
Machinists set up and operate lathes, tool grinders, drills and other machine tools to manufacture metal repair parts and fabricate sheet metal, steel frames and equipment. They do this by interpreting blueprints, engineering drawings, sketches and verbal instructions. Machinists also develop and maintain preventive maintenance procedures, and overhaul equipment. This may involve diagnosing and solving new or unique equipment problems by designing, building and installing equipment improvement prototypes. In analyzing specifications and developing tools, they must have knowledge of metal properties and lathe operation and be able to visualize the finished product.

Working Conditions
Machinists generally work indoors around high-speed cutting tools, moving machinery, metal chips and abrasive dusts. There is frequent contact with grease, oils and solvents. The work can be physically strenuous, with some heavy lifting. Machinists must also be precise, careful and patient to correctly cut, fit and repair all kinds of machinery.

Wages
Beginning apprentices start at approximately 50 to 73 percent of the journey-level wage. Upon successful completion of required related class work and on-the-job hours, wages increase, usually every six months, until the journey-level rate is achieved.

Length of Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship lasts four to five years. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 100 to 200 related classroom hours per year and between 7,000 to 10,000 on-the-job training hours.

Minimum Qualifications
Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years of age. In addition, they must provide proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent.

Apprenticeship Committees
Click on the ID number to see the journey wages rate.

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