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The differences between machine operators and machinists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a machinist has an average salary of $42,147, which is higher than the $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.
The top three skills for a machine operator include basic math, CNC and math. The most important skills for a machinist are grinders, cnc machines, and micrometers.
| Machine Operator | Machinist | |
| Yearly salary | $32,874 | $42,147 |
| Hourly rate | $15.80 | $20.26 |
| Growth rate | -6% | 1% |
| Number of jobs | 96,834 | 15,448 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 40% |
| Average age | 44 | 48 |
| Years of experience | - | 4 |
Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.
Machinists are skilled professionals who create metal works by using different machines. They work with clients to bring their clients' vision to life. They study the blueprints of the product that needs to be done and identify the parts that will need fabrication through machining. They then prepare the materials and equipment. Machinists use different tools such as grinders, drills, lathes, polishers, and milling equipment to create parts that are made of metal. They may sometimes work with other materials such as wood or plastic, but this is seldom. Machinists are expected to be proficient in the use of the machines, to be precise with their work, and can work within the committed timeline.
Machine operators and machinists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Machine Operator | Machinist | |
| Average salary | $32,874 | $42,147 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $40,000 | Between $29,000 And $59,000 |
| Highest paying City | Minneapolis, MN | Eugene, OR |
| Highest paying state | Minnesota | Massachusetts |
| Best paying company | BD | Westinghouse Appliances Australia |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a machine operator and a machinist in terms of educational background:
| Machine Operator | Machinist | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 40% |
| Most common major | Business | Precision Metal Working |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between machine operators' and machinists' demographics:
| Machine Operator | Machinist | |
| Average age | 44 | 48 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% | Male, 92.6% Female, 7.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 12.0% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% | Black or African American, 4.4% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 13.9% Asian, 6.7% White, 70.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 3% |