Careers
Career Map
Where a career in precision manufacturing can take you, and the terms you will hear along the way.
Precision manufacturing has clear routes forward: from apprentice to journeyworker, into programming, inspection, quality, supervision and ownership. The map below, MAKER, groups the jobs into five pathways so that someone new to the industry can see what the jobs actually are and what each one leads to. A plain guide to the vocabulary is coming.
Manufacture
Machining and production
Machine Operator, CNC Operator, Manufacturing Technician; CNC Machinist, Manual Machinist, Swiss Machinist, EDM Technician, CNC Setup Technician; CNC Programmer, Tool & Die Maker, Mold Maker.
Automate
Technology, controls and maintenance
Maintenance Technician, Industrial Maintenance Technician; Electrical Technician, Controls Technician, Robotics/Automation Technician, Manufacturing Technology Specialist; Automation Engineer.
Know
Engineering and programming
CAD Detailer, CAM Detailer, Manufacturing Tech; CAD/CAM Programmer, Applications Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Process Engineer, Tooling Engineer; Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer.
Evaluate
Quality control and metrology
Quality Inspector, Quality Technician; CMM Programmer/Technician, Metrology Technician; Quality Engineer, Quality Manager.
Run
Leadership, logistics and business management
Purchasing/Buyer, Estimator, Customer Service/Account Manager; Manufacturing Sales, Supply Chain Specialist, Project Manager, Applications/Sales Engineer, Business Development, Continuous Improvement Specialist, Lean Manufacturing Specialist; Production Lead through Plant Manager; Operations Director, General Manager, Vice President of Operations, President/Owner.