Wood machinist

The Job  

It’s the job of the wood machinist to prepare floorboards, skirting boards and window frames. Whilst the role does involve cutting and shaping on specialist equipment in a machine shop, it also includes setting up and operating the machines safely - so it helps to be mechanically minded. CAD-CAM is also used in a large number of companies.

The People  

An interest in mechanics will be as important as a love of wood, as it'll be your job to keep the workshop equipment in working order. You'll also have to be just as good with your head as you are with your hands.

Entry Requirements  

There are no set entry requirements to train as a wood machinist, although GCSEs/Standard Grades in Maths, English and Technology may be helpful for the calculations, measurements and theory.

Apprenticeships are the usual route in and enable you to earn while you learn. Entry to an apprenticeship scheme will usually involve a selection test.

The Benefits  

The Building and Allied Trades Joint Council (BATJIC) agrees wage rates annually. Pay rates for apprentices in Scotland are set by SBATC. A good basic wage is available and can be boosted with the incentive schemes that many companies offer.

Wood machinists often move into other related trades such as shopfitting, formworking, bench joinery, maintenance work and systems installation.

There are many ways forward from these roles. You may want to move into the technical, managerial or supervisory side of the industry, or even become your own boss.