Career Opportunities and Work Life

Skills You'll Need

Salary Ranges

The Classroom Experience

Certificate & Degree Options

Career Opportunities and Work Life - Machine Tool Technology

With an education in machine tool technology, you have a wide variety of possible careers from which to choose in this high-tech industry including:

Machining tool operators Tool and die maker Machinist CNC programmer Mold maker CNC operator Machine builder

Work Environment
Machining tool professionals may work in a noisy environment (machine shops) that may require earplugs. Work gloves and safety gear is required for handling the machines and chemicals. This industry is relying more and more on computers and new technology. Typically machining tool operators work a 40-hour workweek, but heavy production periods or individual companies may call for shift work or overtime.

Job Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor is expecting little growth in the metalworking industry by 2012. Despite this, excellent employment opportunities are available. As manufacturing industries invest in new equipment, they rely on skilled tool and die, and metal workers to make the equipment work properly.