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OaSIS 2023 Version 1.0
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72100.01 – Machinists

Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools to cut or grind metal, plastic or other materials to make or modify parts or products with precise dimensions. Apprentices are also included in this occupation.

Overview

Example job titles

  • Automotive machinist
  • Computer numerical control (CNC) machinist
  • Electrical machinist
  • Machinist
  • Machinist apprentice

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, charts and tables or study sample parts to determine machining operation to be performed, and plan best sequence of operations
  • Compute dimensions and tolerances and measure and lay out work pieces
  • Set up, operate and maintain a variety of machine tools including computer numerically controlled (CNC) tools to perform precision, non-repetitive machining operations such as sawing, turning, milling, boring, planing, drilling, precision grinding and other operations
  • Fit and assemble machined metal parts and subassemblies using hand and power tools
  • Verify dimensions of products for accuracy and conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments
  • May set up and program machine tools for use by machining tool operators.

Additional information

  • Familiarity with exotic and composite materials may be required for machinists in aviation and other advanced manufacturing sectors.
  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

Similar occupations classified elsewhere

Exclusions:

  • Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations (72010)
  • Machining tool operators (94106)
  • Tool and die makers (72101)

NOC hierarchy breakdown

NOC version

NOC 2021 Version 1.0

Broad occupational category

7 – Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations

TEER

2 – Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of two or more years; or supervisory occupations

Major group

72 – Technical trades and transportation officers and controllers

Sub-major group

721 – Technical industrial trades

Minor group

7210 – Machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades

Unit group

72100 – Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors

Occupational profile

72100.01 – Machinists

O*NET in-it

This page includes information from the O*NET 27.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Employment and Social Development Canada has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.