The job market for machinists in the United States

There are currently an estimated 396,200 machinists in the United States. The machinist job market is expected to grow by 2.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are machinists?

CareerExplorer rates machinists with a B employability rating, meaning this career should provide good employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 14,400 machinists. That number is based on 7,900 additional machinists, and the retirement of 6,500 existing machinists.

Are machinists in demand?

The demand and job outlook for machinists is positive. Despite improvements in technologies, such as computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, autoloaders, high-speed machining, and lights-out manufacturing, machinists will still be required to set up, monitor, and maintain these automated systems. In addition, as manufacturers invest in new equipment, modify production processes, and implement product design changes more rapidly, they will continue to rely on machinists who possess a diverse skill set and are capable of applying modern production techniques. The level of employment in the machinist industry is impacted by economic cycles, which drive the manufacturing sector in which many of these tradesmen work. Machinists proficient in maintenance and repairs should expect more stable employment since these services are vital to the operation of manufacturing plants, even when production levels fall.

What’s the supply of machinists?

The machinist industry is concentrated in California, Illinois, Ohio

Machinist job market by state