Career outlook for wood machinist
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
£26,000
Currently employed in Scotland
1,400
Average UK salary
£26,000
Currently employed in Scotland
1,400
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures.
Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
You would cut and prepare timber for use in building and furniture making or to sell in DIY shops.
You could make many different timber products that would end up in people’s houses and businesses, for example:
- Floorboards and skirting boards
- Staircases
- Door and window frames
- Kitchen units and cabinets
- Fencing and pallets
You would:
- Follow detailed technical drawings
- Select the right type of wood for each job
- Work out the amount of timber needed
- Cut and shape timber using tools like saws, planes and routers
- Clean workshop tools and look after equipment
As well as hand tools, you may be trained to use computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment. You could also learn to use computer aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) methods.
You’d need to be very aware of safety, be confident around machines and understand different types of wood.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
96%
Part-time
4%
Self employed
0%
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- Reliable
- Time management
- Managing resources
- Implementing ideas
- Developing a plan
- Attention to detail
- Understanding
- Verbal communication
- Observation
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Qualifications
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
You may also enter through a Modern Apprenticeship and work towards a work-based qualifications in wood machining at SVQ levels 2 and 3.
You may have to pass an aptitude test before entry to the apprenticeship.
Useful subjects
- English
- Maths
- Design and manufacture
- Practical technologies such as practical woodwork
You will also need
If you are working or training on a construction site you must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent and pass a health and safety test.
Helpful to have
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate practical skills such as Skills for Work Construction Crafts (SCQF level 4/5).
Related industries
