Woodworking Machine Operators
What they do?
Woodworking machine operators perform some or all of the following duties:
A. Set up, program and operate one or more computer numerically controlled (CNC) or manual woodworking machines such as saws, moulders, lathes, routers, planers, edgers, pressing machines, shapers, drills and sanders to fabricate or repair wooden parts for furniture, fixtures and other wood products
B. Operate gluing machines to glue pieces of wood together or press and affix wood veneer to wood surfaces
C. Operate preset special-purpose woodworking machines to fabricate wood products such as coat hangers, mop handles, clothes pins and other products
D. Read and interpret specifications or follow verbal instructions
E. May clean and lubricate equipment, and replace parts as necessary.
Where they find work?
1. Furniture and related product manufacturing - 45.0%
2. Wood product manufacturing - 35.0%
3. Construction - 4.0%
What education do I need?
1. Some secondary school education is usually required.
2. On-the-job training is usually provided.
3. Experience as a labourer in the same company may be required.
4. Most recent entrants have a trade/vocational certificate.
High School Subject that will help:
1. English
2. Drafting
3. Machine Shop
4. Industrial Arts
What can you expect to make:
The average hourly wages for Woodworking Machine Operators is $12.72/HR, which is below average for occupations in the processing, manufacturing and utilities sector and are below average for all intermediate occupations. These wages grew at an average rate from 2002 to 2004.
Average Wage
Expected Wage by Age
Unemployment:
8% of Woodworking Machine Operators are unemployed. This rate is close to the average for intermediate occupations.
Unemployment
Trends in Unemployment
Current Job Outlook:
The job outlook for Woodworking Machine Operators is considered Average because:
1. Employment grew at an average rate.
2. Hourly wages ($12.72) are below the average ($18.07), and the rate of wage growth is close to the average.
3. The unemployment rate (8%) is above the 2004 average (7%).
Future Job Prospects:
Your job outlook will continue to be Average because:
1. The employment growth rate will likely be above average.
2. Although the retirement rate will likely be below average, the number of retiring workers should contribute to job openings.
3. The number of job seekers will likely match the number of job openings.
Highest Concetration:
The highest concentrations Woodworking Machine Operators are found in Quebec and Manitoba while the lowest concentrations are in Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.
Unionization Rate:
The unionization rate (32%) is close to the average (32%) for all occupations.
Useful Experience:
1. Team environment
2. Communication skills
3. Detail/precision work
