Wood machinists work in workshops, factories and timber processing plants. Conditions may be hot, noisy, dusty and potentially dangerous, although wood machining workspaces are usually fitted with extraction fans. Safety regulations must be followed at all times, and there are some pieces of equipment that must not be operated alone. Wood machinists usually work regular hours, although they may be required to work longer hours at times.

Wood machinists use a variety of wood processing machinery including chisels, drilling machines, planers, grinders, moulders, routers, saws and wood-turning lathes. They may also use computer-aided design (CAD) software, as well as pens, chalk or crayons to mark timber. They use callipers and tape measures to measure wood, and are usually required to wear protective gear such as gloves, earmuffs, safety glasses and work boots.