How to Begin a Career as a CNC Machinist in Australia
Computer numerical control (CNC) machinists are a core part of modern manufacturing. Their work enables automated machining, which results in much higher levels of productivity, accuracy, and reproducibility over less advanced methods, such as manual machining. As you might expect, there's plenty of positions available for those with the required skills and experience for such a crucial part of the manufacturing process.
Because of this demand, along with the future-proof nature of the role, given that automated equipment will always require at least some level of human intervention, now is an excellent time to get into the industry. The popular online employment classifieds Indeed.com.au reports that CNC machinists earn an average wage of $33.27 an hour, with some companies paying as much as $59.62, with overtime available in abundance. With such great pay and such high demand, you're probably already wondering just how you might get your foot in the door within this booming field. Here's how in two easy to understand steps!
Getting Qualified
You'll first need to earn a relevant qualification. While there is technically no legal requirement that requires a CNC machinist to be certified, this is not a job you can simply slot yourself into with a high school diploma; the skills required for the role demand an engineering education, on with a hands-on, rather than theoretical, focus. Training.gov.au lists courses that specifically cover CNC machining, which include the Diploma of Engineering - Advanced Trade and Certificate IV in Engineering.
These are TAFE level qualifications, so entry is thus easily accessible to anyone with a high school diploma. As StudyAssist explains, if you're an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, you'll be eligible for subsidised tuition which you won't have to pay until you're settled into your career. This career path is, therefore, achievable for practically anyone who's ready and willing to put their head down and learn.
Job Hunt
By the time you've finished your TAFE training, you'll have a good degree of hands-on experience (especially if you attend a TAFE with CNC machining facilities on-site, such as TAFE Queensland), an accredited CNC Operator Engineering Skill Set certificate of attainment and some connections in the industry. You may be able to leverage those connections to secure your first full-time position, but even if you can't, there are multitudes of employers looking to secure skilled CNC machinists. If you're somehow not approached with a job offer, you'll find dozens of solicitations posted online every day, so you'll be able to secure interviews from the comfort of your own home. From then on, the industry is your oyster.
Conclusion
It's a lot of work, but the path is clear, leading to nearly guaranteed employment in a booming field. There's never been a better time to begin your path towards a career in CNC machining!
