Skilled & Vocational · Trade

Machinist

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

A Machinist makes precision metal parts using lathes, milling machines, grinders, and CNC tools. In India, most people enter through ITI Machinist and apprenticeship, then move into workshops, factories, railways, auto, aerospace, or maintenance jobs.

Who it's for: Best for students who like practical work, machines, measuring tools, and workshop settings. It suits those comfortable with hands-on learning, basic maths, and steady attention to detail.

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At a glance

Entry mode: Apprenticeship
Exam shape: none
Key exam: ITI
Min qualification: ITI Machinist
Duration: 2.0 yr
Starting salary: 1.8-3.5 LPA (approx, as of 2025)
Sector: Govt/Private
Category: Skilled & Vocational

Subjects / Stream

MathematicsSciencePhysicsIndustrial Training Institute (ITI) tradesMechanical/production stream

Step-by-step path

  1. Complete Class 10 with maths and science if possible.
  2. Take admission in ITI Machinist through the relevant state/ITI admission process.
  3. Finish the ITI course and practical workshop training.
  4. Apply for apprenticeship in a factory, workshop, or PSU through apprenticeship portals or local industry.
  5. Gain hands-on experience on conventional and CNC machines.
  6. Move into a permanent machinist, operator, setter, or maintenance role.

Key exams

ITI admission test - entryState ITI merit list - selectionApprenticeship portal - placement

Top institutes / boards

NCVT/SCVT-affiliated ITIsGovernment ITIsPrivate ITIsNational Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs)Apprenticeship Training Scheme establishments

Similar careers

TurnerFitterCNC OperatorTool and Die MakerWelder
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Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum qualification for Machinist in India?
Usually Class 10 plus ITI Machinist is the standard route. Some employers may prefer candidates with apprenticeship or basic workshop experience.
Is there any national entrance exam for Machinist?
No single national exam is required. Admission is usually through ITI admission processes run by states, often based on merit or a simple qualifying process.
What is the key exam for this career?
ITI admission is the key entry step. After that, apprenticeship selection depends on employer requirements rather than a common national exam.
Can I become a Machinist after Class 12?
Yes. After Class 12, you can still join ITI Machinist or apply for apprenticeship routes if you meet the eligibility rules of the institute or employer.
How many years does it take to become job-ready?
Typically about 2 years after Class 10, including ITI training and initial apprenticeship or shop-floor practice.
What is the course fee for ITI Machinist?
Fees vary widely by government or private ITI. Government ITIs are usually much cheaper, while private ITIs can cost more. Check the institute for the latest fee structure.
What subjects should I study in school for this field?
Mathematics and Science are most useful. Physics, basic engineering concepts, and workshop-oriented learning also help.
Is Machinist a good career in India?
Yes, if you like practical technical work. Demand exists in manufacturing, auto, railways, fabrication, repair, and machine shops.
Where can a Machinist work?
Common employers include factories, machine shops, auto component units, railways, heavy engineering firms, maintenance departments, and apprenticeship-linked industries.
What is the starting salary of a Machinist in India?
Starting pay is often around 1.8-3.5 LPA, depending on city, industry, skill level, and whether the role is apprentice, trainee, or permanent.
Can women become Machinists?
Yes. Women can join ITI Machinist and work in machining, CNC operation, quality, and production roles. Many employers hire based on skill, not gender.
Is there any age limit for ITI Machinist admission?
Age limits depend on the state ITI or institute rules. Many ITI admissions have a minimum age, and some may have upper-age relaxations.
Are reservations available in ITI admissions?
Yes, many state ITI admissions follow government reservation rules for categories such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD, and others as applicable.
Do I need to know coding for Machinist?
Not for the basic trade. However, CNC machines may involve program reading or simple input, so basic digital comfort is helpful.
What skills are most important for a Machinist?
Accuracy, measuring skills, machine handling, tool knowledge, safety habits, patience, and the ability to read drawings are very important.
Is apprenticeship necessary after ITI?
It is not always mandatory, but it is highly useful. Apprenticeship gives real shop-floor experience and improves job chances.
Can a Machinist get a government job?
Yes, through vacancies in railways, defence units, PSUs, and government workshops, subject to recruitment rules and trade requirements.
What is the scope after gaining experience?
With experience, a Machinist can move into CNC operator, setter, supervisor, maintenance technician, quality inspector, or production roles.
Is this career right for me?
It may suit you if you enjoy hands-on work, machines, and practical problem-solving more than classroom-only study.
How do I choose between ITI Machinist and other trades?
Choose Machinist if you like precision cutting and machine tools. If you prefer assembly, repair, or electrical work, fitter, electrician, or turner may suit you better.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

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