CNC Machinist
Set up and run computer-controlled machines that cut precision metal parts.
- $58,750
- 6–24 months
Mechanics, Maintenance & Manufacturing career
Metal Layout Worker
Also called: Layout Technician · Layout Machinist · Fabrication Layout Worker · Marking Technician
What metal layout workers do, what they earn, how long training takes and how to get started, with official BLS pay data and practical, job-level detail.
What does a metal layout worker do?
Layout workers, metal and plastic, lay out reference points and dimensions on metal or plastic stock or workpieces for further processing. The median pay is $63,870 per year (BLS, May 2025), most people train for about A few months on the job, and employment is projected to grow -3.4% from 2025–35.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
- Median pay$63,870$30.71/hour · May 2025
- Job growth-3.4%2025–35, a projected decline
- Openings per year500Average, 2025–35
- Typical entry educationHigh school diploma or equivalentBLS classification
- Time to trainA few months on the jobTypical program length
- U.S. jobs6,200Employment, 2025
What metal layout workers do
Layout workers draw the map on metal. They read blueprints, use height gauges, scribers and layout dye to mark cut lines, hole centers and reference points on stock and castings so others can machine or fabricate parts.
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical. It is a small occupation, and BLS projects slight decline.
Typical duties
- Read blueprints
- Apply layout dye
- Mark reference lines
- Locate hole centers
- Check castings
- Verify dimensions
- Communicate with machinists
Work environment and schedule
Layout workers work in fab and machine shops.
Schedule: Full-time daytime hours.
A day in the life
- Review drawings.
- Clean a casting.
- Apply layout dye.
- Scribe reference lines.
See a full day in the life of a metal layout worker →
Metal Layout Worker salary
Half of metal layout workers earned more than $63,870 and half earned less in May 2025. Pay ranged from about $39,980 for the lowest 10% to $93,860 for the top 10%.
Full metal layout worker pay scale and hourly rates →
How to become a metal layout worker
- Finish high school
- Learn blueprint reading
- Work in a shop
- Learn layout
- Advance
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a metal layout worker →
Skills and tools
Technical skills
- Blueprint reading
- Layout tools
- Geometry
- Measurement
- GD&T
People skills
- Precision
- Patience
- Focus
- Communication
All metal layout worker skills and tools →
Pros and cons
Pros
- Precision work
- Good pay for skill
- No degree needed
- Daytime hours
Cons
- Small field
- Detail pressure
- Standing
- Errors are costly
Certifications and licenses
- NIMS Measurement: Credential.
- GD&T course: Helpful.
- Machining certificate: Helpful.
- Blueprint reading course: Helpful.
Career path
- Helper: Entry.
- Layout Worker: Layout.
- Senior Layout: Complex parts.
- Inspector or Lead: Advance.
Learn the job before day one
Our Metal Layout Worker training (10 hours, $89.99) covers the role, 15+ key terms, step-by-step procedures such as lay out hole centers on a plate and check a casting has enough stock, safety and how to land your first job.
Related careers
Metal Fabricator
Cut, shape and fit steel parts into frames, structures and machinery.
- $51,330
- Several months on the job
Quality Control Inspector
Measure, test and inspect products to make sure they meet specifications.
- $48,570
- 3–12 months on the job
Tool and Die Maker
Build the precision dies, molds and tools factories use to make parts.
- $64,050
- 4 years (apprenticeship)
Compare: Metal Layout Worker vs. CNC Machinist · Metal Layout Worker vs. Metal Fabricator · Metal Layout Worker vs. QC Inspector · Metal Layout Worker vs. Tool and Die Maker
Metal Layout Worker FAQ
Is layout work common?
It’s a small occupation.
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is CNC replacing it?
Partly, but castings and large parts still need layout.
How much does a metal layout worker make?
The median annual wage for metal layout workers was $63,870 ($30.71 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,980 and the highest 10% earned more than $93,860.
How long does it take to become a metal layout worker?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a metal layout worker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
More metal layout worker questions →
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-4192 (Layout workers, metal and plastic).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Layout workers, metal and plastic (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.