Miller
What is the work like?
Millers, also known as turners, work with lathes and drilling machines to make precision parts for industry. They work mainly with metal blocks or 'stocks', to produce everything from small engine screws for vehicle manufacturers to large turbine rotors used in aerospace engineering.
As a miller, you would use various machine tools, ranging in size from bench-mounted equipment to production machines. Your basic machine tool would be the lathe.
Your main tasks would include:
- working out lathe speeds, and cutting and drilling sequences
- setting tolerance levels in line with job instructions
- placing the 'stock' securely into the lathe ready for machining
- making sure all safety guards are in place
- monitoring the lathe during operation
- making adjustments to the machine, as the 'stock' is machined down to the exact specification
- checking that machined items meet quality standards
- carrying out basic maintenance checks on machines.
Most jobs now use a combination of traditional manual milling with computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, which are designed to speed up production. See the job profile for CNC Machinist for more details about this job.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Often, the best way to get into this type of work is to join an engineering Apprenticeship. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
Alternatively, you could take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for this job. Relevant courses include the BTEC Introductory Certificate and Diploma in Engineering, and City & Guilds Certificate in Engineering.
Previous experience in engineering would also be an advantage when looking for work.
See the website for SEMTA for general information about engineering as a career. The Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland) also has careers information and a course database for colleges in that area.
What further training and development can I do?
Your employer would usually train you on the job. This would cover company procedures, product types and safety regulations. You could also take work-based qualifications, including:
- NVQ in Performing Engineering Operations
- NVQ in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering
- NVQ in Engineering Toolmaking
- Advanced Diploma in Engineering and Technology (Mechanical).
These awards contain units covering turning, milling, grinding and drilling. You may also be given training on CNC machines.
Where can I go for more information?
Interpoint20-24 York Street
Belfast
BT15 1AQ
Tel: 028 9032 9878
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282167
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Salaries are between £18,000 and £22,000 a year.
- Experienced millers can earn up to £25,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your normal working week would be around 40 hours. Shiftwork, including nights and weekends is common, and overtime may be available.
You would work in a factory or engineering workshop, which could be noisy. You are likely to spend most of your time on your feet.
You would use safety equipment, including ear and eye protectors, safety footwear and overalls.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good practical ability and hand-to-eye coordination
- accuracy and attention to detail
- the ability to read engineering drawings and instructions
- good maths skills to work out cutting speeds and times
- an understanding of the properties of materials
- IT skills
- the ability to concentrate for long periods
- an awareness of health and safety issues.
What opportunities are there?
Most jobs are in general engineering and manufacturing, but you may also find opportunities in the motor, aerospace and shipbuilding industries.
With experience, you could take up a supervisory job within a section or workshop, or become an engineering technician.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
SCENTA
The Engineer
JustEngineers.net
Jobcentre Plus
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