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Metal Machinist

OFO Code: 652301

Last checked 3 October 2026

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1. Occupation identity

OFO code
652301
Occupation
Metal Machinist
Classification
OFO 2021
Major group
SKILLED AGRICULTURAL, FORESTRY, FISHERY, CRAFT AND RELATED TRADES WORKERS
Unit group
6523 · Metal Working Machine Tool Setters and Operators

Official description
Metal working machine tool setters and operators set and/or operate, various machine tools working to fine tolerances.

Trade occupation in the OFO source

More official OFO detail

Specialisations: Tooling Mechanician, Machine Tool Operator, Turner Machinist (Automotive), Machine Tool Mechanician, Vertical Borer, Jig Borer, Fitter-machinist, Milling Machinist, Lathe Operator / Setter / Tradesperson, Machine Tool Setter, Turner (Metal), Turner Machinist, Machinist and Fitter (Automotive), Machine Setter, Automotive Machinist, Aircraft Machinist, CNC Machinist, Metal Machine Setter, Roll Turner, Machine Tool Fitter, Cabling technician

  • Setting one or more types of machine tool for production of metal articles in standardised series
  • Performing similar tasks when machining plastics and other metal substitutes
  • Observing machine operations to detect work piece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary
  • Changing worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools and brushes, using hand tools
  • Operating and monitoring metalworking machines, such as lathes, milling, planning, boring, drilling, grinding or honing machines, including multi-purpose numerically controlled metalworking machines
  • Inspecting work pieces for defects, and measuring work pieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments

2. Demand status

Demand evidence not yet linked

This is an official OFO 2021 occupation. Demand status is separate evidence and is not inferred from inclusion in the OFO.

A national demand signal is not a promise of a vacancy in your town.

3. Salary evidence

No sourced salary record has been ingested for this OFO code yet.

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5. Qualification

Qualification evidence pending.

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7. Industry, sector and provincial context

National occupation classification. Industry and provincial context are shown only where a separate official source supports the link.

No source-backed modern OFO↔SIC 7 industry link has been ingested for this occupation yet. PathLens does not infer one from the job title.

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8. Next steps — official links

Career explorationNCAP / KhethaOfficial destination ↗QualificationQCTOOfficial destination ↗Public employment serviceESSA / labour centreOfficial destination ↗

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10. Sources for this page