91E Machinist

When a Soldier needs a part made or repaired right away, they look to Machinists for assistance. Army National Guard Machinists utilize their knowledge, skills, and expertise to repair broken parts, modify old ones, or fabricate replacements for all equipment. They achieve this by operating lathes, drill presses, grinders, welding gear, and other machine shop equipment.

Responsibilities

• Work with tools such as lathes, drill presses, grinders, and welding gear
• Measure work with calipers, micrometers, and rulers
• Study blueprints or written plans of the parts to be made
• Cut metal stock using a variety of tools
• Use drill presses to shape and smooth parts
• Utilize machines such as engine lathes, utility grinders, power cutoff saws, hydraulic presses, drill presses, oxyacetylene, electric arc, inert gas welding machines, and their associated attachments, accessories, and tools

Skills

• Use of different metals
• Safety procedures
• Interest in math, general science, metal working, and mechanical drawing
• Interest in making things and finding solutions to mechanical problems

Training

Job training for a Machinist consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 13 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including practice in machine operation. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field. Instead of paying to learn these skills, you will earn a regular paycheck and qualify for tuition assistance.

Benefits

• Paid training
• A monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and State tuition assistance
• Retirement benefits for part-time service
• Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
• 401(k)-type savings plan
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)
• Health care benefits
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable

Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change.

Requirements

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Programs and benefits are subject to change. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.