In most states, production occupations are rallying after major job losses during the recession. The resurgence is seen most among computer-controlled machine tool operators, an occupation with more workers now than in 2007. Machinists, engine assemblers and other production jobs are getting close to pre-recession employment levels.

• Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders – jobs declined 16 percent from 2007 to 2009, and then increased 16 percent from 2010 to 2012.
• Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic – jobs declined 13 percent from 2007 to 2009, and then increased 14 percent from 2010 to 2012.
• Pourers and Casters, Metal – jobs declined 23 percent from 2007 to 2009, and then increased 13 percent from 2010 to 2012.
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers – jobs declined 16 percent from 2007 to 2009, and then increased 13 percent from 2010 to 2012.

The study uses Economic Modeling Specialists’ (EMSI), rich labor market database, which pulls from over 90 national and state employment resources, such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, and state labor departments, and includes detailed information on employees and self-employed workers.  EMSI, a CareerBuilder company, removes suppressions often found in publically available data and includes proprietors, creating a complete picture of the workforce.

The below video highlights the supply and demand of the CNC machinist role in 2012. Additional in-demand jobs outside of manufacturing include: financial analysts, account executives, .net developers, CDL drivers and health care case managers.

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