The job requires stamina, because machinists stand most of the day and at times may need to lift moderately heavy workpieces. CNC programmers work in offices that typically are near, but separate from, the shop floor. These work areas are usually clean, well lit, and free of machine noise. Most machinists and CNC programmers work a 40-hour week. Evening and weekend shifts are becoming more common as companies justify investments in more expensive machinery by extending hours of operation.
Overtime is common during peak production periods.
Most machinists work in small machining shops or in manufacturing firms that produce durable goods, such as metalworking and industrial machinery, aircraft, or motor vehicles. Maintenance machinists work in most industries that use production machinery. Although machinists and CNC programmers work in all parts of the country, jobs are most plentiful in the Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast where manufacturing is concentrated. Basic knowledge of computers and electronics is also helpful because of the increased use of computer-controlled machine tools. Experience with machine tools is extremely important.