Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
Work Activities
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Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
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Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
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Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
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Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
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Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.
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Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
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Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.
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Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
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Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems.
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Remove and replace dull cutting tools.
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Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.
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Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.
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Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.
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Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.
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Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
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Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
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Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.
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Control coolant systems.
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Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.
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Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.
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Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.
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Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
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Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.
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Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.
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Set up future jobs while machines are operating.
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Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot.
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Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Hearing Sensitivity
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
- Education High school diploma or equivalent
- Work Experience No work experience
- Training 1 to 12 months on-the-job training
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Looking for technical training programs?
Check out these programs:
Realistic: People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.They do well at jobs that need:
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Attention to Detail
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Achievement/Effort
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Analytical Thinking
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Cooperation
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Persistence
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Self Control
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Traveling column milling machine
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Tracer or duplicating or contouring lathe
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Milling machines
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Calipers
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Boring machines
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Industrial control software
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
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Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
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Computer aided design CAD software
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Analytical or scientific software
