TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
Tools used with judgment
manual lathes and milling machines, CNC mills and lathes, grinders, drills and saws, micrometers, gauges and CMMs, cutting tools and workholding systems.
← General Machinist overview
01 · WHAT · PRODUCE PATH
What is the General Machinist trade?
A General Machinist cuts, shapes and finishes metal to make precision machined parts and components used in all areas of manufacturing. Specifically, a General Machinist:
THE CORE OF THE WORK
Inspect. Diagnose. Repair. Improve.
A General Machinist cuts, shapes and finishes metal to make precision machined parts and components used in all areas of manufacturing. Specifically, a General Machinist:
Not every General Machinist performs every task. The mix changes with the employer, sector, workplace, equipment and level of responsibility.
- reads and interprets complex engineering drawings and work-process documentation
- cuts, shapes, and finishes metal to make precision machined parts and components
- sets up and operates both conventional and numerically controlled metal-cutting machines and equipment, including saws, drills, grinders, lathes and mills
- performs work-in-process measuring or checking using specialized and precision tools and equipment
WORKING CONDITIONS
Understand the environment
rotating machinery and sharp tools; noise, coolant and metal chips; tight tolerances and costly errors; standing and material handling; shift work in production environments.
SAFETY FIRST
Learn the hazards before the task
Training, supervision, safe procedures, appropriate PPE and stopping when conditions are uncertain are essential. Requirements vary by workplace and assignment.
STRENGTHS THAT GROW
Skill develops through practice.
measurementmechanical reasoningpatiencesystematic troubleshootinghands-on precision
ADVANCED SPECIALIZATIONS
One trade can lead to very different work.
These are advanced work directions within or adjacent to General Machinist, not promises of separate credentials or pay. Requirements vary by employer, equipment, experience and any additional training or authorization.
CNC machining
Set up, prove and operate programmed mills, lathes and machining centres.
Manual toolroom machining
Produce one-off precision parts using conventional machines and judgment.
Aerospace and defence
Work with demanding materials, traceability and inspection requirements.
Prototype machining
Turn evolving designs into testable parts with rapid problem-solving.
Grinding and high-precision finishing
Achieve close size, geometry and surface requirements.
Repair and maintenance machining
Rebuild unavailable or damaged components from samples and drawings.
Inspection and shop leadership
Advance into CMM inspection, estimating, supervision or shop ownership.
EVIDENCE BASE
Sources & verification
Regulated, numerical and time-sensitive claims link to the authority used. Accessed and reviewed August 25, 2026.
Skilled Trades Ontario — General Machinist ↗Official scope, duties, training and certificationGovernment of Canada Job Bank — Ontario wages ↗Ontario low, median and high employee wage benchmarkSkilled Trades Ontario — Start an apprenticeship ↗Eligibility, sponsors and registrationOntario — OYAP ↗High-school apprenticeship pathway
Why might this career fit me?