Wood Machinist

What does a wood machinist do?Depending on the project, the responsibilities of a wood machinist vary daily.The Typical Duties Of a Wood Machinist Include:Following technical drawings and templatesSelecting the right timber for a job and calculating the quantity neededUse computer-aided design or manufacturing (CAD/CAM) programmes or computer numerically control (CNC) softwareUsing handheld saw, planes and routers to cut and shape woodPreparing, maintaining and operating woodworking machineryFollowing strict health and safety guidelinesWorking in a workshop or sawmill.How to become a wood machinist?There are several routes to becoming a wood machinist. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work.You should explore these routes to becoming a wood machinist, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.College/training providerYou could complete a college course to help you become a wood machinist.Equivalent entry requirements explainedFind a course near youFunding adviceApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.You could complete an intermediate apprenticeship as a wood product manufacturing operative, or an advanced apprenticeship in wood machining.Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.Guide to apprenticeshipsWorkIf you have some previous experience in carpentry or joinery, you could apply directly to an employer to become a wood machinist. You could begin your career as an assistant or trainee. As you become more experienced, your employer might offer training to help you progress in the role.Work experienceWork experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a wood machinist. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.Find out more about work experienceSkillsDesirable skills for a wood machinist include:Knowledge of different types of wood and their usesAbility to use a range of tools and machinesAccurate measuring skillsGood communication skillsAbility to read technical drawings.QualificationsTo become a Wood Machinist, you could complete a:NVQ Level 2 Wood MachiningTo Become a Wood Machinist, You Could Complete A:SCQF Level 6 in Construction Building (Wood Machining)To Become a Wood Machinist, You Could Complete A:NVQ Level 2 Wood MachiningHow much could you earn as a wood machinist?The expected salary for a wood machinist varies as you become more experienced.Newly trained wood machinists can start at £23000Trained with experience wood machinists can earn up to £40000*Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources