Top 10 Lathe Machinist Certifications

Certifications are important for lathe machinists in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties. Employers look for certified machinists who have a proven track record of success, as well as an understanding of safety protocols and industry regulations. The certifications also help employers differentiate between qualified and unqualified applicants by verifying the individual’s experience and education. Additionally, certifications can provide workers with an opportunity to advance their career, as they can show that they have achieved a certain level of proficiency in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Lathe Machinists and explain how they can help to advance a lathe machinist's career.

What are Lathe Machinist Certifications?

Lathe machinist certification is a specialized program designed to train and certify individuals in the operation of lathe machines. This certification is offered by trade organizations and colleges, as well as through some employers.

The certification process involves both classroom instruction and hands-on experience with the machine itself. During the classroom portion, students learn about the different types of lathes, their functions, and how to properly operate them. The hands-on portion requires students to demonstrate their ability to safely and accurately use the machinery. Once certified, individuals can apply for jobs that require a certain level of expertise with these machines.

Having a lathe machinist certification can help individuals secure better job opportunities in areas such as manufacturing plants or repair shops. It gives them an edge over other applicants who do not have this type of training or experience. Additionally, it demonstrates to employers that they have the knowledge necessary to work with this type of equipment safely and effectively. Furthermore, having a certification can help increase an individual's salary potential since they will be considered more qualified than those without one.

Pro Tip: Before attempting to become a certified lathe machinist, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the skills and knowledge required to operate a lathe safely and effectively. Additionally, take advantage of any available training opportunities at your local community college or technical school to gain the necessary experience and expertise.

Related: What does a Lathe Machinist do?

Top 10 Lathe Machinist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lathe Machinists today.

1. Certified CNC Lathe Machinist

Certified CNC Lathe Machinist is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the use of CNC lathes. It is typically obtained by completing a course or program in CNC lathe operation, which can range from one to two years in duration. The coursework typically includes topics such as machine setup and programming, safety and maintenance, troubleshooting, and advanced machining techniques.

In order to get certified as a CNC Lathe Machinist, individuals must pass an exam administered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). This exam tests knowledge of machine setup and programming, safety and maintenance, troubleshooting, and advanced machining techniques. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their NIMS certification card.

The cost of getting certified as a CNC Lathe Machinist varies depending on the institution offering the course or program. Generally speaking, courses cost between $2,000 - $5,000 USD.

2. Certified Manual Lathe Machinist

Certified Manual Lathe Machinist is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills of manual lathe machinists who have achieved a level of proficiency in their craft. The certification requires completion of the NIMS Manual Lathe Machining Level 1 Certification exam.

To become certified, you must first complete a minimum of 80 hours of training in manual lathe operation and safety. This training can be obtained through a variety of sources including technical schools, community colleges, apprenticeship programs, or on-the-job training. Once you have completed the required training, you must then pass the NIMS Manual Lathe Machining Level 1 Certification exam.

The cost of becoming certified depends on where you get your training and how long it takes to complete it. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1000-$3000 to become certified depending on where you get your training and how long it takes to complete it.

Once you have passed the certification exam, you will receive an official certificate from NIMS that verifies your achievement. This certificate will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

3. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Lathe Machinist

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification program for machinists who specialize in lathe operations. It is designed to ensure that those who hold the certification have the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and accurately operate a lathe machine.

In order to become certified, an individual must pass an exam administered by ASME. The exam consists of both a written portion and a practical demonstration of lathe operations. The written portion covers topics such as safety, shop math, blueprint reading, tooling selection, and cutting speeds. The practical portion involves demonstrating proper use of the lathe including setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the location but typically ranges from $150-$400 USD. It usually takes around two hours to complete the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also have at least three years of experience working with lathes in order to be eligible for certification.

4. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Lathe Machinist

National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in the metalworking industry. It is designed to help employers identify qualified employees who have demonstrated their proficiency in lathe machining operations.

In order to become NIMS Certified Lathe Machinist, an individual must first pass an assessment that tests their knowledge and abilities in lathe machining operations. The assessment consists of both written and practical components, which are administered by a NIMS-certified assessor. In addition, applicants must also complete a minimum of 8 hours of safety training related to lathe machining operations.

Once the assessment has been passed, applicants will receive a NIMS Certification card indicating that they are certified as a Lathe Machinist. This certification is valid for five years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by re-taking the assessment or taking additional safety training courses.

The cost of becoming NIMS Certified Lathe Machinist varies depending on the location where you take the assessment and any additional safety training courses you may need to take. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for the assessment alone, with additional fees for safety training courses if needed.

5. International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Certified Lathe Machinist

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced machinists. The certification requires a demonstration of proficiency in the operation, maintenance, and programming of computer numerical control (CNC) lathes. It also requires a thorough understanding of safety procedures, quality assurance processes, and other related topics.

To become an IAMAW Certified Lathe Machinist, applicants must first complete an approved training program or apprenticeship that covers the required topics. After completing the training program or apprenticeship, applicants must pass a written exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as CNC operations, safety procedures, quality assurance processes, and more.

Once an applicant has passed the written exam, they can apply for certification with IAMAW. The cost for certification varies depending on the level of certification being sought but typically ranges from $100-$500 USD. Once certified, IAMAW Certified Lathe Machinists are recognized as having achieved a high level of expertise in their field and can use this designation to advance their career opportunities.

6. Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) Certified Lathe Machinist

The Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in operating and maintaining lathes. This certification is intended for machinists who are looking to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field.

In order to obtain the FMA Certified Lathe Machinist certification, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, tooling, set-up, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality control. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and requires a passing score of 70% or higher. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they must then submit an application packet which includes proof of experience in lathe operations, a letter of recommendation from an employer or supervisor, and payment for the certification fee (currently $150). Upon approval of the application packet by FMA staff, applicants will receive their official certificate in the mail.

The FMA Certified Lathe Machinist certification is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years have passed, applicants must retake and pass the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

7. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Lathe Machinist

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the operation of a lathe. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified individuals for positions related to the operation of a lathe.

To become AWS Certified Lathe Machinist, an individual must pass an exam administered by the AWS. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of a lathe. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

In order to take the AWS Certified Lathe Machinist exam, an individual must have at least one year of experience in operating a lathe or have completed an approved training program. In addition, applicants must be 18 years or older and submit proof of identity before taking the exam.

The cost of taking the AWS Certified Lathe Machinist Exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it generally costs between $100 and $200 USD.

8. Tooling and Manufacturing Association (TMA) Certified Lathe Machinist

The Tooling and Manufacturing Association (TMA) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the lathe machining process. The certification is awarded by TMA, an organization that promotes excellence in the manufacturing industry.

To become certified, applicants must first complete a written exam that covers topics such as safety, tooling, setup and operation of a lathe machine. After passing the exam, applicants must then demonstrate their ability to operate a lathe machine through a hands-on practical test. This test involves setting up a workpiece on the machine and then completing various operations such as drilling, facing, turning, threading and knurling.

The entire process typically takes between two to three months to complete depending on availability of testing centers and scheduling of exams.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on location but is typically around $100 USD. Additionally, there are other fees associated with becoming certified such as membership dues and registration fees which can add up to several hundred dollars more.

Once certified, individuals are recognized by employers as having achieved a high level of proficiency in operating lathe machines. This certification can also help individuals stand out when applying for jobs or promotions within their current company or when looking for new opportunities elsewhere.

9. Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Certified Lathe Machinist

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Certified Lathe Machinist is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of machinists who specialize in lathe operations. This certification is intended to demonstrate an individual's ability to safely and effectively operate, set up, and maintain lathes.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get the SME Certified Lathe Machinist certification, depending on the individual's experience level. To get the certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience operating a lathe or equivalent machine tool, as well as complete a series of written and practical examinations. The written exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, setup and operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality control. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to correctly set up a lathe for various operations.

The cost for the SME Certified Lathe Machinist certification varies based on geographic location but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD.

10. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Lathe Machinist

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Lathe Machinist program is a credentialing program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the operation of lathe machines. This certification is offered through NCCER's Craft Training Program, which is designed to provide industry-recognized credentials for craft professionals across the construction, maintenance, and pipeline industries.

In order to become certified as an NCCER Certified Lathe Machinist, you must complete an approved training program and pass an assessment exam. The training program typically consists of classroom instruction and hands-on practice in operating a lathe machine, and may include topics such as safety procedures, tool selection, machining techniques, and quality control. Depending on the specific program you choose, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete the training.

Once you have completed your training program, you will need to register with NCCER and pay a fee in order to take the assessment exam. The cost of registration varies depending on the type of credential you are seeking; however, it generally ranges between $50-$100. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your NCCER Certified Lathe Machinist credential.

Overall, becoming an NCCER Certified Lathe Machinist requires dedication and commitment; however, having this certification can open up many opportunities within the construction industry that would otherwise be unavailable without it.

Do You Really Need a Lathe Machinist Certificate?

The answer to whether or not you need a lathe machinist certificate depends on your end goals. If you are looking to become a professional machinist and work in the metalworking industry, then yes, you likely need a lathe machinist certificate or some kind of training program that will provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary for the job. A lathe machinist certificate from an accredited institution can provide you with valuable hands-on experience as well as theoretical knowledge about machine tools, materials, and processes.

On the other hand, if you are simply looking to gain basic knowledge about how to use a lathe machine, then no, you do not necessarily need a lathe machinist certificate. There are plenty of resources available online and in books that can help you learn the basics of using a lathe machine without having to invest in an expensive certification program.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if obtaining a lathe machinist certificate is worth your time and money. If your goal is to become a professional machinist, then it may be worth investing in one so that employers can see that you have the necessary qualifications for the job. On the other hand, if your goal is just to learn more about how to use a lathe machine for personal projects or hobbies, then there are plenty of free resources available online that can teach you what you need to know without having to pay for an expensive certification program.

Related: Lathe Machinist Resume Examples

FAQs About Lathe Machinist Certifications

1. What is a Lathe Machinist Certification?

A Lathe Machinist Certification is a professional certification that verifies your knowledge and skills in the use of lathes. It demonstrates that you have the required knowledge and skill to safely and effectively operate a lathe.

2. What are the requirements for becoming a certified Lathe Machinist?

To become a certified Lathe Machinist, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) or American Machine Tool Distributors Association (AMTDA). You will also need to complete on-the-job training and apprenticeships.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Lathe Machinist?

The amount of time it takes to obtain certification varies depending on your experience level and the organization providing the certification. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to two years to become fully certified.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a Lathe Machinist Certification?

With a Lathe Machinist Certification, you can work in many different industries including automotive manufacturing, aerospace engineering, medical device production, and other precision machining industries. You may be responsible for operating manual or CNC lathes, setting up parts for machining operations, or providing technical support for machine operators and engineers.

5. Are there any additional certifications I can pursue after becoming a certified Lathe Machinist?

Yes! After obtaining your initial certification as a Lathe Machinist, you may choose to pursue additional certifications such as Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT), Master CNC Programmer (MCP), or Quality Control Inspector (QCI). These certifications demonstrate higher levels of expertise in specific areas within the field of machining and will make you more marketable when seeking employment opportunities in this field.