Maschinist
[maʃiˈnɪst]
The German word for machinist is Maschinist.
A Maschinist is a person skilled in the use of machine tools.
Meaning: one skilled in the use of machine tools (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Maschinist refers to an operator of a machine, the term Feinmechaniker is used specifically for someone skilled in precision mechanics.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Maschinist is Maschinisten. To refer to a female machinist, use the feminine form Maschinistin.
Did you know?
- In German theater, a Maschinist is not a factory worker but a stage technician responsible for operating the scenery and stage machinery.
- While Maschinist is a general term, Germans use the highly specific Zerspanungsmechaniker to describe someone who specializes in cutting and shaping metal.
- In many historical German industrial contexts, a Maschinist was not just a technician but also a person responsible for the overall maintenance and 'health' of an entire steam engine room.
Examples in context
- Ich arbeite als Mechaniker in einem großen Industrieunternehmen.I work as a machinist in a large industrial company.
- Die Mechanikerin hat unsere Produktionsanlage heute repariert.The female machinist repaired our production facility today.
- Er arbeitet als Maschinist in einer Fabrik.He works as a machinist in a factory.
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are discussing their career goals.
- HannahWas möchtest du später werden?What do you want to be later?
- JulianIch möchte ein Maschinist werden.I want to become a machinist.
- HannahDas klingt nach einem guten Beruf.That sounds like a good profession.
- JulianJa, ich liebe technische Arbeit.Yes, I love technical work.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Maschinist, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
