There are many different types of products that take someone skilled in that field to create, from textiles to jewelry to clothing to furniture. Precision production workers are found in many different fields. Leather-working, metalworking, woodworking, and boiler-making are some of the different types of precision production careers that you can specialize in.

Students that major in precision production will learn about the different tools and the techniques used to make products out of various mediums.

How to Get Into Precision Production

Craftspeople unite! There are courses offered in many trade schools and community colleges where you will be able to get a certificate or associate’s degree in precision production or welding.

  • Although it’s not altogether necessary, get your high school diploma or GED.
  • Know basic math, especially geometry, and understand how to use computers.
  • Most precision production careers are very hands on, so they will require a certain degree of skill and stamina.
  • Find an internship or apprenticeship.
  • Or start out as an apprentice.

Depending on which precision production you specialize it will determine what type of career you can get into.

  • Precision metal working: welding, iron and steel worker, tool and die maker, sheet metal worker, metal fabricator
  • Woodworking: carpentry, woodworking, upholstery and furnishings, cabinet making and millwork, construction, and construction managers
  • Shoe, boot, and leather repair: repair all different types of shoes, purses, belts, and luggage
  • Boilermaking: buildings, ships, or factories
  • Metal and plastic machine workers: model making, cutting, punching, and press machine setting, computer controlled machine tool operator, machine setters among a variety of industries
  • Painting and coating workers: Automotive, furniture, machinery manufacturing

Salary Information for Precision Production

For as many job titles that can be listed under the precision production heading, there are equally as many average salaries, ranging from about $30,000 -$75,000, or more. Much of the salary will be based on your location, the industry you’re employed in, and how much experience you bring to the table.

Percentile 10% 25% 50%
(Median)
75% 90%
Hourly Wage $ 17.64 $ 21.00 $ 24.44 $ 30.22 $ 36.45
Annual Wage $ 36,690 $ 43,680 $ 50,840 $ 62,860 $ 75,820

Salary table found at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes514041.htm

Most of the precision production careers are expected to show little to no change in demand by 2032.

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