Machinist resume

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Key skills for a machinist resume

Terms that job ads ask for and ATS filters look for. Only include the ones you master.

  • CNC machining
  • Manual lathe and mill
  • Blueprint reading
  • G-code
  • CAD/CAM
  • Precision measurement
  • Setup and operation
  • Tolerances and GD&T
  • Quality inspection
  • Tooling

Tips for your machinist resume

  1. Say whether you run CNC, manual machines or both, and name the controls you know.
  2. List the machines: lathes, mills, grinders or multi-axis machining centers.
  3. Mention the materials and tolerances you work with.
  4. Say whether you only run machines or also do setups and programming.
  5. Name your CAD/CAM software.
  6. Include your apprenticeship and certifications.

Machinist resume summary examples

Adapt these examples with your real details: years of experience, industry, tools and certifications.

Experienced

CNC machinist with 9 years of experience in an aerospace job shop. I set up and run 3- and 5-axis mills, edit G-code, read complex blueprints and hold tolerances of ±0.0005 inches in aluminum, titanium and stainless steel.

Entry-level

Machining technology graduate with hands-on training on CNC lathes and mills, blueprint reading and precision measurement. Completed a project making a precision part from drawing to inspection. Looking for my first CNC operator role.

Other job titles

Search for them too and use the one in the job ad on your resume.

  • CNC machinist
  • CNC operator
  • CNC programmer
  • Tool and die maker
  • Machine operator
  • Precision machinist

How to write a machinist resume step by step

  1. Write a short summary

    Three or four lines with your experience, machines, materials and tolerances.

  2. Detail your experience

    In “Experience”, add the shop, industry, machines and whether you set up or program.

  3. Add certifications and licenses

    In “Certificates”, list your apprenticeship and machining certifications.

  4. Highlight your skills

    In “Skills”, group machines, controls, software and measuring tools.

  5. Tailor your resume to the job ad and download it

    Paste the job ad into Beatjob: the AI improves the wording with the keywords your experience backs up. Then download the PDF.

More resume examples

Frequently asked questions about a machinist resume

What training do machinists need?

Machinists typically need a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship that can last several years.

Are machining certifications required?

They are optional, but certifications in areas like CNC operation or CAD/CAM can help you stand out.

What should an entry-level machinist resume include?

Your training, the machines you used, school projects and your measuring and blueprint skills.

Sources

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Machinist resume: examples and tips | Beatjob