Machinist apprentice

Description of an apprenticeship as a Machinist apprentice

Table of Contents

Machinist apprentice

DOT code: 600.280-022

Visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook for a detailed description of this trade. Type the trade name in the search box and hit enter.

Description

Sets up and operates conventional, special‑purpose, and numerical control (NC) machines and machining centers to fabricate metallic and nonmetallic parts, and fits and assembles machined parts into complete units, applying knowledge of machine shop theory and procedures, shop mathematics, machinability of materials, and layout techniques: Studies blueprints, sketches, drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished workpiece, sequence of operations, and setup requirements. Measures, marks, and scribes dimensions and reference points on material or workpiece as guides for subsequent machining. Selects, aligns, and secures holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on machines, such as mills, lathes, jig borers, grinders, and shapers. Calculates and sets controls to regulate machining factors, such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth and angle of cut, or enters commands to retrieve, input, or edit computerized machine control media. Starts and observes machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining, and adjusts machine controls or control media as required. Verifies conformance of finished workpiece to specifications, using precision measuring instruments. Sets up and operates machine on trial run to verify accuracy of machine settings or programmed control data. Fits and assembles parts into complete assembly, using jigs, fixtures, surface plate, surface table, handtools, and power tools. Verifies dimensions and alignment of assembly, using measuring instruments, such as micrometers, height gauges, and gauge blocks. May install machined replacement parts in mechanisms, machines, and equipment, and test operation of unit to ensure functionality and performance. May operate welding equipment to cut or weld parts. May develop specifications from general description and draw sketch of part or product to be fabricated. May confer with engineers, production personnel, programmers, or others to resolve machining or assembly problems.

Work Process Schedule

Task Hours
A. Tool crib 500
B. Drills 500
C. Lathe - engine 1500
D. Milling machine 1000
E. Shaper and planer 500
F. Surface grinder 300
G. Universal grinder 500
H. Cutter grinder 600
I. Heat treatment 100
J. Bench work 500
K. General machinery repair 2000
(Every 2,000 hours =
one year) total hours:
8000

Related technical instruction

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires 150 hours each year of related technical instruction which must be mastered by the apprentice in order to successfully complete the program. For further information, please call the Division of Apprentice Standards at (617) 626-5409.

  • Safety
  • Mathematics
  • Basic blueprint reading, and sketching
  • Tools and equipment
  • Engine lathes
  • Drives
  • Air conditioning and air compressors
  • Drill press
  • Shaper
  • Planer
  • Farrel wheel borer
  • Grinding technology
  • Magnaflux unit
  • Wheel press
  • Wheel lathe
  • Bench layouts
  • V block and clamp
  • Jack screw
  • Journal bearings

Additional Resources

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