Precision Machinist Job Description: Duties, Skills & Requirements

Key Takeaways

• Precision machinists set up, program, and operate CNC equipment to produce metal components within tight dimensional tolerances (±0.0001" to ±0.005")
• The role requires reading engineering drawings with GD&T per ASME Y14.5, selecting cutting tools and parameters, and performing in-process inspection
• Work environments range from climate-controlled aerospace clean rooms to general job shops, with most positions requiring standing for 8-10 hour shifts
• Median pay is $48,740 nationally, but precision specialists in aerospace and medical device sectors earn $70,000-$110,000+
• Career advancement paths include CNC programming, manufacturing engineering, quality engineering, applications engineering, and shop ownership