This question is about what a machine operator does and machine operator.

Is a machine operator a machinist?

By Zippia Team - Nov. 2, 2021

Yes, machine operators are considered machinists. Google defines a machinist as "a person who operates a machine, especially a machine tool." By this broad term, they are interchangeable.

They are indeed very similar. However, some certifications distinguish themselves as machinists rather than machine operators. So, they are generally used interchangeably nowadays but may indicate different skill sets.

Specifically, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, machine operators are "material moving machine operators" who use equipment to transport objects.

Machinists are labeled under "Machinists and Tool and Die Makers," who set up and operate a variety of computer-controlled and mechanical-controlled machine tools to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools. Both jobs require a bit of difference in training and certifications.

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