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If you’ve Googled “machinist job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again:
Bullet points. Vague responsibilities. Zero personality. No mention of the shop environment or what kind of machines they’ll actually be working with.
And here’s the problem…
That kind of post doesn’t attract the skilled, detail-oriented professionals you want on your floor. It attracts checkbox applicants. People skimming 20 listings and firing off résumés without a second thought.
But a great machinist job post?
That’s your first quality control test.
It should be clear, specific, and show what kind of team and environment they’re joining—because that’s what serious candidates care about.
So if you’re here to find a real machinist who gives a damn about precision, safety, and quality—you’re in the right place.
This article will not only give you a ready-to-use machinist job description—it’ll teach you how to write one that actually works.
(And if you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It breaks down why generic posts fail—and what to do instead.)
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What Does a Machinist Actually Do?
A machinist is the person who turns raw materials into precision parts.
They set up and operate machine tools—like lathes, mills, and grinders—to cut metal (and sometimes plastic or composite materials) into exact shapes and tolerances. But this isn’t just about pushing buttons on a CNC. Great machinists understand blueprints, select the right tools, measure twice (sometimes three times), and know how to troubleshoot when things don’t go to plan.
They’re hands-on problem-solvers who care about quality.
In many shops, machinists are also responsible for inspecting their own work, performing routine maintenance on machines, and keeping production efficient without sacrificing safety.
And here’s the key:
A good machinist doesn’t just “run the machine.”
They own the process—from setup to finish—making sure every part is accurate, clean, and ready to move to the next stage.
Two Great Machinist Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Machinist Job Description
📌 Job Title: CNC Machinist for Precision Aerospace Parts – Titan AeroTech
📍 Location: Wichita, KS
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person
💰 Salary: $26–$32/hr based on experience
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM | Overtime Available
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Here’s a quick message from our Production Lead explaining what we do, how we work, and what success looks like in this role.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]
🏢 Who We Are
Titan AeroTech is a precision manufacturing company based in Wichita, Kansas—the Air Capital of the World. We specialize in high-tolerance aerospace parts for both commercial and defense aircraft. Our clients include top-tier aerospace suppliers, and our team is known for delivering reliable, exact work on tight deadlines. For over 15 years, we’ve built a reputation for integrity, precision, and team-driven excellence.
🤝 Our Company Culture
We’re a tight-knit, low-ego team that values craftsmanship, discipline, and accountability. At Titan AeroTech, machinists aren’t treated like numbers—they’re trusted experts. We take pride in mentoring new team members, running clean and organized workstations, and solving problems together without micromanagement.
🛠️ About the Role
This is not a button-pushing job. As a CNC Machinist at Titan AeroTech, you’ll be responsible for setting up, operating, and inspecting CNC mills and lathes with tight tolerances. You’ll work with aerospace-grade alloys, read complex blueprints, and collaborate closely with the quality team. If you’re someone who double-checks every measurement and owns the outcome of your work, you’ll thrive here.
👤 What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of experience in CNC machining (milling or turning)
- Experience working with aerospace materials (aluminum, titanium, etc.)
- Able to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T
- Confident using calipers, micrometers, and height gauges
- Familiarity with Fanuc or Haas controls preferred
- Self-starter with a safety-first mindset
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 60 days)
- Paid holidays and 2 weeks PTO annually
- Annual tool allowance
- Clean, climate-controlled facility
- Free on-site parking and uniforms provided
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re the kind of machinist who takes ownership, solves problems on the floor, and never settles for “close enough,” you’ll feel right at home. You’ll get autonomy in your work, the backing of a collaborative team, and opportunities to cross-train on multiple machine types. We also promote from within and reward consistency, craftsmanship, and initiative.
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level Machinist Job Description
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Machinist – No Experience Required | Precision Forge Co.
📍 Location: Tulsa, OK
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site
💰 Salary: $18–$22/hr | Performance review + raise at 90 days
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM
🎥 Watch Before You Apply
Here’s a short video from our Shop Manager explaining what we do, how we train, and what makes our team different.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]
🏢 Who We Are
Precision Forge Co. is a family-run job shop that’s been operating out of Tulsa, Oklahoma for over 20 years. We serve the automotive, energy, and agricultural sectors, providing custom metal parts with tight lead times and high accuracy. We’re not a giant plant—we’re a focused, hands-on team where every machinist matters.
🤝 Our Company Culture
We believe in learning by doing. Everyone here—from the owner to the newest apprentice—works on the floor and pitches in. We care more about mindset than résumé. If you show up, stay curious, and do what you say you’ll do—you’ll fit in here. It’s a no-politics, no-drama kind of place where people are treated with respect and rewarded for effort.
🛠️ About the Role
You don’t need experience to apply—we’ll train you.
As a junior machinist, you’ll start by shadowing our experienced operators. You’ll learn how to read blueprints, set up tools, measure tolerances, and run CNC equipment. Within a few months, you’ll be running jobs on your own, producing real parts used in trucks, tractors, and oilfield equipment.
👤 What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Comfortable using hand tools and basic shop equipment
- Willing to learn, take feedback, and ask questions
- Reliable, punctual, and focused
- Any previous hands-on or trade work is a plus
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Paid on-the-job training
- Health and dental insurance (after 90 days)
- Free safety gear + weekly tool sharpening
- Fridays off every other week (optional compressed workweek)
- Free snacks + stocked fridge for all shop staff
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is a chance to learn a high-paying trade without student debt. You’ll get mentorship from experienced machinists and build skills that are always in demand. If you’re tired of working dead-end jobs and want to learn a craft you can grow in for years to come, this is your shot.
📥 How to Apply
We believe your attitude matters more than your résumé.
That’s why we use WorkScreen to give every applicant a fair shot. Click the link below to complete a quick evaluation and show us what you’re made of:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Machinist Job Descriptions Work
Let’s break down what makes these two job posts (for experienced and entry-level machinists) actually effective—and why they’ll attract better candidates than the usual templated listings.
1. ✅ The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
- Instead of just “Machinist,” we used titles like:
“CNC Machinist for Precision Aerospace Parts – Titan AeroTech” and
“Entry-Level Machinist – No Experience Required | Precision Forge Co.” - These titles immediately tell the reader who it’s for, what they’ll do, and what kind of company they’re joining.
- It helps filter the right applicants before they even click “apply.”
2. 👋 The Introductions Feel Human, Not Robotic
- Both job posts open with context and personality—framing the opportunity in a way that respects the candidate’s time and skill.
- They don’t jump straight into a bullet list. Instead, they show what the role means, who it’s for, and why it exists.
3. 🏢 Company Overviews Are Real, Not Generic
- Instead of saying “We’re a manufacturing company…” the “Who We Are” sections include company names, locations, years in business, industries served, and even a bit of company pride.
- This builds credibility and helps candidates visualize where they’d be working.
4. 👥 Culture Is Described—Not Just Claimed
- The company culture isn’t thrown in as fluff.
Both posts talk about how the team actually works day-to-day:- “No-politics, no-drama kind of place…”
- “Machinists aren’t treated like numbers—they’re trusted experts.”
- “No-politics, no-drama kind of place…”
- This builds emotional connection and helps readers self-select whether they’d fit in.
5. 🎥 Video Elements Add a Human Touch
- Adding a short video from a team lead or shop manager brings life to the job post.
It makes the company feel approachable and transparent—especially valuable in skilled trades where trust and leadership matter.
6. 💬 The Role Descriptions Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
- Instead of saying “Operate CNC machine,” we say things like:
“You’ll be responsible for setting up, operating, and inspecting CNC mills and lathes with tight tolerances.” - This shows how the role contributes to bigger outcomes—and why it matters.
7. 📋 The Requirements Are Specific and Fair
- The experienced machinist post clearly outlines expectations (GD&T, Fanuc, calipers, etc.)
- The entry-level post is just as thoughtful: it lowers the barrier while still showing what kind of mindset and attitude is required.
8. 🎁 Perks & Benefits Are Transparent and Tangible
- We included real, practical benefits—like paid tool allowance, Fridays off, and stocked fridges.
- These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re things people actually care about in a shop environment.
9. 💡 “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Makes It a Pitch
- We didn’t just list what the candidate will do—we gave them a reason to care.
- Each post sells the opportunity: autonomy, mentorship, long-term growth, and respect.
10. 📥 The Application Process Is Respectful
- We reinforce that WorkScreen is used to fairly evaluate skills—not just résumés.
- It sets expectations and encourages real, qualified applicants to apply with confidence.
Bad Machinist Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Machinist
📍 Location: Chicago, IL
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
🕒 Schedule: Day shift
Deadline: Applications accepted until filled
📝 Job Summary
We are hiring a machinist to operate various types of machines. The machinist will be responsible for reading blueprints, setting up machines, and maintaining production output. Candidate must follow company guidelines and safety protocols.
🔧 Key Responsibilities
- Operate machines
- Read blueprints
- Follow safety standards
- Ensure quality and productivity
- Complete tasks as assigned
📋 Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 2–4 years of experience in machining
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work independently
📥 How to Apply
Submit your résumé and cover letter to hr@midwestmfg.com. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
🚨 Why This Job Post Falls Short
Let’s break down what’s wrong:
1. 🧊 The Job Title Is Too Generic
“Machinist” doesn’t tell the reader what type of machining (CNC? Manual? Aerospace? Automotive?). It fails to filter or engage the right audience.
2. 😐 The Introduction Has No Personality
There’s no mission, no mention of the company, and no context. The tone feels cold, like it was copied and pasted from a decade ago.
3. 💰 No Mention of Pay or Benefits
In a competitive labor market, leaving out pay signals a lack of transparency. Top candidates skip these posts.
4. 🏢 No Company Overview or Culture
There’s no attempt to explain what the company does, what industries it serves, or what kind of shop environment the candidate would walk into. It could be any company, anywhere.
5. 📋 Responsibilities Are Way Too Broad
“Operate machines”? That could mean anything. There’s no detail about the type of machines, materials, or tolerances involved.
6. ❌ The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” makes the company sound impersonal and outdated. It doesn’t show any respect for the applicant’s time or effort.
7. 💤 The Call to Action Is Weak
Just “submit a résumé” to an email address? No warmth, no motivation, no indication of next steps.
This is the kind of post that skilled machinists scroll past—because it looks like the company doesn’t care. And if your job post feels like a formality, you’ll only attract people who treat it that way too.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Machinist Job Description Stand Out
Even a solid job post can be made better with a few thoughtful additions. These advanced tips help you build trust, show respect, and stand out in a crowded market.
🔒 1. Add a Security Notice to Build Trust
Unfortunately, job scams exist—especially in skilled trades. Adding a simple statement to your post can instantly make candidates feel safer applying.
✅ Example to include at the end of your job post:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for your bank details, personal financial info, or request any payment during the hiring process.”
🧘 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Skilled workers value work-life balance just like anyone else. If you offer any sort of leave, vacation time, or compressed schedules—say it clearly.
✅ Example line to include in Perks & Benefits:
“Enjoy up to 14 paid days off per year, including personal flex days to recharge when needed.”
Or:
“Optional 4-day workweeks available after training period.”
🚀 3. Highlight Training and Growth Opportunities
Many machinists want to grow their skills—whether it’s moving from manual to CNC, or learning how to program and set up machines. If you support growth, mention it.
✅ Example line to include in “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”:
“We offer paid cross-training opportunities across mills, lathes, and programming, so you can grow your skill set and take on more responsibility.”
🎥 4. Add a Loom Video to Humanize the Role
A short video from your shop floor, team lead, or hiring manager can completely change the tone of your job post. It shows you’re real, approachable, and proud of your workplace.
✅ Where to put it:
Right before the “Who We Are” section in your job description.
✅ What to say:
Keep it under 90 seconds. Introduce yourself, show the shop briefly, explain what success looks like in the role, and invite the right people to apply.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
Should You Use AI to Write a Machinist Job Description?
Let’s be honest—it’s tempting to ask ChatGPT or your ATS to “write a machinist job post” and call it a day. And while AI can be a helpful assistant, it’s also one of the fastest ways to end up with a job post that:
- Sounds like it was written by someone who’s never set foot in a machine shop
- Attracts low-effort applicants who are copy-pasting résumés to 50 listings
- Reflects none of your company’s values, voice, or culture
The result? You get buried in applications, but none of them are a good fit.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
“Write me a job description for a machinist.”
That’s a fast path to generic content. You’ll get a lifeless post full of bullet points and buzzwords, written by a system with no understanding of your shop, your standards, or your team.
It might sound polished—but it won’t attract the right people.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
Use AI as a collaborator, not a crutch. Come prepared with your inputs, and ask AI to help refine your message—not write it from scratch.
Here’s a sample prompt that works:
“Help me write a job description for our company, Titan AeroTech. We’re hiring an experienced CNC Machinist to work on high-tolerance aerospace components. The role involves setting up and operating CNC lathes and mills, using Haas controls, and inspecting tight-tolerance parts. Our culture is team-oriented, disciplined, and focused on quality craftsmanship. We want to attract candidates who take ownership, care about precision, and enjoy working in a clean, low-ego shop environment. We offer full benefits, a tool allowance, and cross-training opportunities. Here’s a few rough notes to get started: [Insert your notes].”
With this approach, AI becomes a co-writer—not the driver.
💡 Pro Tip:
You can even paste in one of the good job post examples from this guide and ask AI to mirror the tone, structure, and clarity—while customizing the details to your company.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Machinist Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: CNC Machinist – [Company Name]
📍 Location: [City, State]
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site
💰 Salary: [$X–$Y/hr Based on Experience]
🕒 Schedule: [Days + Time]
🎥 A quick message from our Shop Manager:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
🏢 Who We Are
[Company Name] is a precision manufacturing company based in [Location]. We serve clients in [Industry — e.g., aerospace, automotive, medical devices], and our reputation is built on craftsmanship, speed, and consistency. For over [X] years, we’ve delivered high-quality parts with low tolerance for excuses—and tight tolerance on everything else.
🤝 Our Culture
We keep it simple. Do your job well, own your mistakes, help your teammates. There’s no micromanagement here—just mutual respect, high standards, and a shared pride in doing work that lasts.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll set up, run, and inspect CNC machines (mills and lathes) to produce precision parts. You’ll read blueprints, work to tight tolerances, and collaborate with the quality team to get every detail right. You’ll also be trusted to keep your work area organized and your tools sharp.
👤 What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of CNC machining experience
- Familiar with [Fanuc / Haas / Mazak] controls
- Confident using inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, etc.)
- Can read and interpret GD&T and blueprints
- Bonus: Experience with [industry-specific materials or parts]
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Tool allowance
- Cross-training opportunities
- Optional 4-day workweek
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t a “just push the button” kind of job. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work, wants to be trusted, and enjoys being part of a team where everyone pulls their weight. You’ll have autonomy, support, and the chance to grow.
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on your strengths, not just your résumé.
Click here to complete your short, skills-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
📄 Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
📌 Job Title: Machinist
📍 Location: [City, State]
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary: [$X–$Y/hr]
🕒 Schedule: [Shift Details]
🗓️ Deadline to Apply: [Insert Date or “Until Filled”]
🎥 A quick message from our Shop Manager:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
📝 Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled machinist to join our production team. The ideal candidate will be experienced in setting up and operating CNC and/or manual machinery to produce high-precision parts. Attention to detail, safety, and quality control are essential.
🔧 Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC machines (mills, lathes, grinders, etc.)
- Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, and other tools
- Maintain machines and tools in proper working condition
- Document work and complete production reports
- Collaborate with engineers and quality control teams
📋 Requirements
- 2–5 years of machining experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Experience with [Fanuc, Haas, or XYZ] CNC controls
- Knowledge of GD&T, tolerances, and inspection processes
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet all day
- Strong math and measurement skills
🎁 Benefits
- Health and dental coverage
- PTO and paid holidays
- Shift differential pay (if applicable)
- Overtime available
- Ongoing training and internal promotion opportunities
📥 How to Apply
To apply, please complete your WorkScreen evaluation here:
👉 [Insert Link]
We’ll review every application and respond promptly. We appreciate your time.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a great job post is half the battle.
The real challenge? Figuring out who’s actually qualified once the applications start rolling in.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how WorkScreen helps you hire faster and smarter:
✅ Quickly spot your top candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Assess skills—not just claims
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants (including AI-generated ones)
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✅ Save hours in your hiring process
No more chasing paperwork, guessing who to shortlist, or relying on gut feel. Just structured evaluations, clean data, and confident decisions.
If you want to spend less time sorting résumés and more time hiring great machinists… 👉 Sign up with WorkScreen.io today Create your job post, invite applicants, and let the system handle the heavy lifting.
FAQ
When hiring a machinist, look for both technical and behavioral skills:
Core technical skills include:
- Proficiency in operating CNC and/or manual machines
- Blueprint and technical drawing interpretation
- Familiarity with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
- Use of inspection tools like micrometers, calipers, and height gauges
- Understanding of various materials (steel, aluminum, titanium, etc.)
- Machine setup, tooling, and basic maintenance knowledge
Equally important soft skills:
- Attention to detail
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Discipline and consistency
- Reliability and punctuality
- Willingness to follow safety protocols
Great machinists don’t just “run the machine”—they take pride in doing precision work with minimal supervision.
As of 2025, the average salary for a machinist in the U.S. typically falls between $20–$30 per hour, depending on:
- Experience level
- Location
- Industry (aerospace and medical manufacturing often pay higher)
- Type of work (CNC vs. manual machining)
- Shift differential (night shifts often pay more)
Entry-level machinists may start around $18/hr, while experienced professionals in high-precision environments can earn $32/hr or more.
A CNC operator typically loads materials and runs pre-programmed parts on machines with minimal setup or editing.
A machinist, on the other hand, often sets up the machine, selects tooling, adjusts offsets, inspects parts, and may even write or modify G-code programs.
Machinists have a deeper understanding of the full process and are usually more experienced.
Not necessarily.
While certifications (like NIMS or community college trade programs) are helpful, many great machinists are self-taught or trained on the job. What matters more is hands-on experience, consistency, and their ability to produce accurate, high-quality parts safely.
