In the precision-driven world of repairs, your machinist resume is your first opportunity to make a strong impression and highlight your expertise.

Whether you're an experienced CNC machinist looking to advance your career or a beginner eager to start in the trade, a well-crafted document is crucial to stand out in a competitive job market.

This article provides an online resume building guide, complete with resume samples that showcase the essential elements needed to capture the attention of employers.

Machinist resume examples

CNC machinist resume

CNC machinist resume template

CNC machinist resume sample | Plain text

Daniel Carter

Houston, TX

Email: daniel.carter@gmail.com

Phone: (713) 456-9872

Summary

Experienced CNC Machinist with expertise in precision machining, setup, and programming. Skilled in operating multi-axis CNC machines, reading blueprints, and optimizing machining processes for maximum efficiency and accuracy.

Experience

CNC Machinist

Precision Manufacturing Inc., Houston, TX | March 2020 – Present

  • Program and operate CNC milling and turning machines to produce complex metal and plastic components.
  • Perform tool changes, offsets, and quality inspections to ensure precision and adherence to specifications.
  • Collaborate with engineers to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce cycle times by 15%.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot CNC equipment to minimize downtime.

CNC Operator

Lone Star Machining, Houston, TX | June 2016 – February 2020

  • Set up and operated CNC lathes and mills, ensuring precision and consistency.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on machines to prevent malfunctions and improve efficiency.
  • Read and interpreted blueprints and technical drawings for part fabrication.
  • Assisted in training new machinists on proper machine operation and safety protocols.

Education

Associate Degree in Machine Tool Technology

Houston Community College, TX | Graduated: May 2016

Certifications

  • OSHA 30-Hour Safety Certification | Issued: March 2022
  • Certified CNC Machinist (NIMS), National Institute for Metalworking Skills | Issued: July 2018

Skills

  • CNC machine setup and operation
  • G-code and M-code programming
  • Blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation
  • Quality control and inspection
  • CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360)

Why this machinist resume stands out?

How to format a resume for machinist?
  • Choose plain fonts such as Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, or Times New Roman.
  • Size should be 10–12 points for body text and 14–16 pt for headings.
  • Set 1-inch margins on all sides for a clean look.
  • Keep line spacing 1.15 or 1.5 to maintain readability.
  • Use bullet points to list responsibilities and achievements in resume.
  • 1 page resume is ideal for those with under 10 years of experience.
  • Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting across different devices.
  • Strong action words help showcase your skills and contributions.
  • Avoid excessive technical jargon that HR recruiters may not understand.
  • Match keywords for resume from the job description to improve ATS compatibility.
  • Refrain from fancy colors, excessive design elements, or emoji.
  • Stick to black text on a white background.

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Manual machinist resume

Manual machinist resume example

James Howell

Cincinnati, OH
Email: james.howell@gmail.com
Phone: (513) 876-5432

Professional Summary

Skilled manual machinist with experience in precision machining, specializing in lathes, mills, grinders, and drill presses. Adept at blueprint reading, GD&T interpretation, and quality control inspections to ensure high-precision metal parts.

Work Experience

Manual Machinist

Ohio Precision Works, Cincinnati, OH | April 2015 – Present

  • Operate manual lathes, mills, drill presses, and surface grinders to machine and repair high-precision components.
  • Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and CAD designs to ensure precise machining and compliance.
  • Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and height gauges for accurate part dimensions.
  • Collaborate with engineers and welders to ensure component specifications and make necessary adjustments.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot manual machining equipment to prevent breakdowns and improve overall shop efficiency.

Machinist Apprentice

Midwest Tool & Die, Cincinnati, OH | July 2012 – March 2015

  • Assisted senior machinists with machine setups, tooling changes, and workpiece alignments.
  • Conducted quality inspections on machined parts to ensure compliance with design specifications.
  • Learned basic welding and metal fabrication techniques to assist with minor repairs and modifications.
  • Followed strict safety protocols and maintained a clean and organized work environment.

Education

Certificate in Precision Machining

Cincinnati Technical College, OH | Graduated: May 2012

Certifications

  • OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety CertificationIssued: October 2021
  • Forklift Operator CertificationIssued: March 2020
  • Journeyman Machinist CertificationOhio State Apprenticeship Council | Issued: August 2016

Skills

  • Manual lathe and milling machine operation
  • Precision measurement and inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, height gauges)
  • Blueprint reading & GD&T interpretation
  • Metal fabrication & welding (MIG, TIG, Stick)
  • Machine maintenance & troubleshooting
  • Drilling, tapping, and boring operations
  • Thread cutting and gear machining

Workshops

  • Advanced Manual Techniques WorkshopCincinnati Machining Institute | Completed: June 2023
  • Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) TrainingCompleted: September 2022
  • Introduction to CNC ProgrammingCompleted: December 2021

Hobbies

  • Restoring vintage machinery – enjoy refurbishing old manual lathes and mills
  • Metalworking projects – design and fabricate custom metal parts as a hobby
  • Automotive repair – work on classic cars and build custom metal components
  • Attending industry trade shows – stay updated on the latest machining technologies and trends

Why this sample machinist resume is effective?

  • The resume opening statement sets the tone and lets the reader know what the candidate brings to the table.
  • The inclusion of recent workshops and training highlights a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
  • Hobbies showcase passion and a genuine interest in the craft, which can resonate with hiring managers.
What is the difference between machinist resume summary and objective?
AspectSummaryObjective
PurposeDescribes expertiseStates aspirations and what the applicant seeks
FocusUnderlines strengths and achievementsEmphasizes professional growth or job alignment
ToneConfident and results-orientedForward-looking and goal-driven
Length2-3 sentences1-2 sentences
UsefulnessBest for those with experienceIdeal for newcomers or those changing career direction
ExampleVersatile machinist with strong experience in manual machining, metalworking, and fabrication techniques. Proficient in welding (MIG, TIG) and machining processes such as turning, milling, and grinding. Adept at interpreting blueprints and working with a variety of materials, including steel and aluminum, to produce custom parts for industrial applications.Aspiring machinist with a strong desire to expand my skills in machine operation, troubleshooting, and precision measurement. Looking for an apprenticeship or entry-level position where I can grow my knowledge.
How to list education on a machining resume?

Ensure you provide essential details about your academic background, such as:

  • Degree or certification
  • School name
  • City and state of the institution
  • Month and year of graduation or an expected date

If applicable, write specific courses or areas of study that are relevant to the role.

Aerospace machinist resume

Aerospace machinist resume template

Aerospace machinist resume sample | Plain text

Michael Reyes

Los Angeles, CA
Email: michael.reyes@gmail.com
Phone: (310) 765-4321

Professional Summary

Aerospace Machinist with experience machining precision components for aircraft and spacecraft. Proficient in 5-axis CNC machining, working with aerospace-grade metals, and meeting tight tolerances. Adept at collaborating with engineers and quality teams to refine manufacturing processes and ensure compliance with AS9100 standards.

Work Experience

Aerospace CNC Machinist

Lockheed Martin, Los Angeles, CA | September 2018 – Present

  • Operate and program 5-axis CNC mills to produce high-precision aerospace components.
  • Perform first-article inspections (FAI) and in-process quality control checks using CMM and precision measuring instruments.
  • Collaborate with engineering and quality assurance teams to optimize machining parameters.
  • Train junior machinists in advanced CNC techniques and safety protocols.

Machinist

Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Long Beach, CA | July 2015 – August 2018

  • Set up and operated CNC lathes and mills for the production of aircraft components.
  • Assisted in developing machining workflows for new aerospace parts, reducing waste by 15%.
  • Conducted quality inspections and ensured adherence to AS9100 and ISO 9001 standards.

Education

Associate Degree in Manufacturing Technology

Los Angeles Trade-Tech College, CA | Graduated: May 2015

Certificate in CNC Machining

California Aerospace Institute, Los Angeles, CA | Completed: August 2014

Certifications

  • AS9100 Aerospace Quality CertificationIssued: January 2021
  • Advanced CNC Programming CertificationIssued: September 2019

Skills

  • 5-axis CNC machining and programming
  • Aerospace-grade materials (Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum)
  • GD&T interpretation and blueprint reading
  • CMM inspection and precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges)
  • Lean manufacturing and process optimization
  • AS9100 and ISO 9001 compliance

Projects

  • Optimized Aerospace Component Production – Led a process improvement initiative at Lockheed Martin that reduced machining cycle times by 20%, improving overall efficiency.
  • Developed Training for New Machinists – Designed and implemented a hands-on program at Boeing, reducing onboarding time for new hires by 30%.

Volunteering

STEM Mentor & Machining Instructor

Los Angeles Technical High School, CA | 2020 – Present

  • Teach high school students basic machining and blueprint reading.
  • Organize hands-on workshops introducing students to CNC programming and manufacturing technology.
  • Provide career guidance to students interested in aerospace machining.

Why this example of resume for machinist works?

  • Projects showcase leadership experience in training and onboarding machinists, which is valuable for senior roles.
  • Volunteering highlights STEM outreach, aligning with industries focused on innovation and workforce development.
  • Document mentions quality standards (AS9100, ISO 9001), which are crucial for compliance in aerospace manufacturing.
How to organize experience on a machinist resume?
  • List the most recent role first, followed by previous ones.
  • Choose industry-standard titles.
  • Include company name and location.
  • Use numbers to show achievements.
  • Note promotions separately.
  • Keep descriptions of duties brief and impactful.
What are the key machinist resume skills?
  • Hard skills are technical abilities gained through training, education, or hands-on experience. These are measurable and directly impact performance.
  • Soft skills are personal attributes that influence work habits, communication, and teamwork. These affect how efficiently someone performs their job and interacts with others.

Hard skills for machinist resume:

  • CNC programming (G-code, M-code)
  • Manual and CNC machine operation
  • Blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation
  • Precision measurement (micrometers, calipers, CMM)
  • Machine maintenance and troubleshooting
  • Metal fabrication and welding
  • CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360)
  • Tool selection and setup
  • Quality control and inspection
  • Lean manufacturing principles

Soft skills for machinist resume:

  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Adaptability
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Work ethic
  • Critical thinking
  • Organization
  • Safety awareness

Conclusion

These free resume examples provide tailored formats for different machinist roles, ensuring that candidates can effectively showcase their skills and experience.

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