Time left: 4 years and 8 months · Group: Production
The official job description
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor, used under CC BY 4.0.
What machinists do all day (for now)
Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.
Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
Oh hell yes. And sooner than you think. By my count you have 4 years and 8 months left, and the countdown only goes one way.
How long until AI replaces machinists?
4 years and 8 months. I'd start updating that CV, but I can also do that for you.
Which machinists tasks will AI take first?
The ones that already happen on a screen, starting with: machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders. The rest follows.