Engineering Machinist and Toolmaker - Working conditions
Kaihanga Take Pūkaha/Taputapu
Working Conditions
Engineering machinists and toolmakers work in workshops, tool rooms and factories. They may visit clients and complete repairs on-site.
There is potential for danger when working around machinery; however, these risks are minimised with appropriate safety procedures and equipment.
Equipment
Equipment engineering machinists and toolmakers may use includes:
- hand tools such as spanners
- power tools such as drills and drill presses
- lathes and milling machines
- surface grinders
- measuring tools
- metal-removal machines
- computer-controlled machines
- safety equipment such as armuffs, overalls, safety glasses and steel-capped boots
- computers and computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Wayne Muschamp using the milling machine
Engineering machinists and toolmakers often use CAD software
Hours
Engineering machinists and toolmakers usually work regular hours, but may be required to work some weekends and evenings.
"It's usually a nine-to-five job, but you sometimes have to work longer hours to get the tools out on time."
Coulton Finch - Toolmaker
Contact with people
Engineering machinists and toolmakers work independently and as part of a team. They take instructions from a supervisor and may supervise apprentices.
They interact with tool designers and clients, and have contact with other workers such as maintenance and diagnostics engineers.
Updated
September 2009
