Metal Machinist (First Class)

A metal machinist operates precision machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinding equipment to shape, finish, and produce metal components to specified tolerances in manufacturing, engineering, or job-shop settings. They read engineering drawings and work instructions, set up machines with appropriate tooling and cutting parameters, and perform quality checks throughout production to ensure parts meet dimensional and surface finish specifications. First-class machinists supervise junior machinists, troubleshoot complex machining problems, and may plan sequences for high-precision or complex components.

Interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications to determine cutting parameters, tool selection, and machining sequences. Set up and calibrate precision machine tools including CNC lathes, milling machines, and surface grinders with appropriate cutting tools and work-holding devices. Operate lathes and milling machines to machine internal and external features, threads, and contours on metal workpieces to specified tolerances. Measure components using precision instruments such as micrometres, calliper gauges, and height gauges to verify conformance to drawings. Adjust machine settings and tool offsets during production runs to maintain dimensional accuracy and surface finish quality. Perform tool changes and maintenance on machine tool spindles, coolant systems, and hydraulic components to minimise downtime. Identify and resolve machining faults such as tool chatter, incorrect feeds and speeds, or work-holding problems that affect component quality. Supervise and mentor junior machinists, review their setup and work, and provide guidance on complex machining techniques.

The standard entry pathway requires a Certificate IV or Certificate III with at least two years of on-the-job training (ABS skill level 3). Specific qualification requirements vary by employer and state. Some employers may accept equivalent experience. Check yourcareer.gov.au for available courses and dewr.gov.au/skills-reform/free-tafe for subsidised training options.

The pay ceiling is real. You're also competing against CNC automation and offshoring. The physical toll matters too: standing all day, metal shavings, noise, repetitive strain. And you need a solid Cert III or IV upfront, which takes time and costs money.

Regional centres with engineering works or mining support services also hire. Job-shop and contract manufacturing cluster near metro areas. Remote work doesn't apply.

Published for ANZSCO unit group 3232, the wider group this job sits in, not for this job on its own.

This is the median for full-time employees who are not managers and are paid at the adult rate, before tax and salary sacrifice. It is a guide to what the work pays, not a wage rate.

Source: ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.

• Attention to Detailcore
• Basic Arithmetic and Numerical Accuracycore
• CAM softwarecore
• Continuous Learning and Upskillingcore
• Incident Reportingcore
• Policy and Procedure Adherencecore
• Problem Solvingcore
• Process Improvement Identificationcore
• Quality Assurance and Checkingcore
• Risk Identificationcore
• Team Collaborationcore
• Time Management and Prioritisationcore
• Verbal Communicationcore
• Workload Self-Managementcore
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Advise on machinery malfunctions
• ERP and Inventory Systems
• Process Documentation
• Record Management
• Regulatory and Legislative Awareness
• Research and Analysis
• Written Communication

• ABS OSCA 2024, occupation definition and task statements
• ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.
• ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing based on usual place of residence (Custom Report). OSCA Experimental Estimates.

Role data is drawn from official Australian Government sources, and each figure names where it comes from. Where a role is not in the ABS classification, the page shows no government figures for it. Data may not reflect every local variation.

Where our numbers come from.

What Metal Machinist (First Class) workers move into, from ten years of tax records.

Last updated: 30 October 2026