How much does a metal machine worker make in Japan?

In Japan, pay can differ with experience and the machines or tasks a worker can handle; a machine-processing skill certificate may lead to an allowance at some workplaces. Factory size and industry, location, employment type, working hours, and night shifts can also make a difference.

What's a typical day like?

They read a drawing, choose tools, secure a metal blank, and set up a machine. They check and measure a test cut, adjust the setup, then clean the machine and check for worn tools.

In Japan, many people start after an industrial high school, though no specific school or license is required. New workers learn on the job from experienced coworkers, then may take the national Machine Processing Skills Test.

In Japan, an NC machine can run automatically overnight—even on jobs that take dozens of hours—without a worker watching it the whole time.

Japan's figure is the average and the US figure is the median. Prices and exchange rates matter too, so it's a rough comparison.