Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic

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Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic

Careers / Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic

Summary Description


	Operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic work pieces.

Sample Job Titles

1.	Automated Cutting Machine Operator

2.	Automation Machine Operator

3.	Brake Press Operator

4.	CNC Laser Operator (Computer Numerical Control Laser Operator)

5.	CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Operator)

6.	CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist)

7.	CNC Operator (Computer Numeric Control Operator)

8.	CNC Technician (Computer Numerical Control Technician)

9.	Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator (CNC Lathe Operator)

10.	Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator (CNC Machine Operator)

11.	Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist)

12.	Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator (CNC Mill Operator)

13.	Computer Numerical Control Operator (CNC Operator)

14.	Computer Numerical Control Set-Up and Operator (CNC Set-Up and Operator)

15.	Computer Numerically Controlled Shot Peening Operator

16.	Jig Boring Machine Operator for Metal

17.	Laser Beam Trim Operator

18.	Machine Operator

19.	Machine Set-Up, Operator

20.	Machinist

21.	Manufacturing Assistant

22.	Manufacturing Associate

23.	Manufacturing Operator

24.	Medical Numerical Control Operator

25.	Metal CNC Operator

26.	Numerical Control Drill Press Operator

27.	Numerical Control Jig Boring Machine Operator

28.	Numerical Control Lathe Operator

29.	Numerical Control Machine Operator

30.	Numerical Control Machine Operator, Metal and Plastic

31.	Numerical Control Machine Set-Up Operator

32.	Numerical Control Machine Tool Operator

33.	Numerical Control Milling Machine Operator

34.	Numerical Control Milling Machine Set-Up Operator

35.	Numerical Control Router Operator

36.	Numerical Control Router Set-Up Operator

37.	Plastic CNC Machine Operator

38.	Printed Circuit Boards Numerical Control Drill Operator

39.	Robotic Machine Operator

40.	Shot Peening Operator

41.	Welding Robot Operator

Job Tasks

	Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures. Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

	Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments. Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment. Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment. Install mechanical components in production equipment.

	Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences. Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.

	Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links. Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.

	Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation. Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.

	Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces. Program equipment to perform production tasks.

	Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation. Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.

	Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences. Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.

	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. Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.

	Remove and replace dull cutting tools. Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment. Replace worn equipment components.

	Monitor machine operation and control panel displays and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions. Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

	Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions. Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.

	Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation and save modified programs. Program equipment to perform production tasks.

	Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts. Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production.

	Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction. Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products. Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications. Replace worn equipment components.

	Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes. Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.

	Stack or load finished items or place items on conveyor systems. Stack finished items for further processing or shipment.

	Control coolant systems. Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.

	Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools. Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment. Maintain production or processing equipment. Replace worn equipment components.

	Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels. Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.

	Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production. Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.

	Implement changes to machine programs and enter new specifications, using computers. Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment. Program equipment to perform production tasks.

	Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools. Program equipment to perform production tasks.

	Set up future jobs while machines are operating. Program equipment to perform production tasks.

	Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags. Clean production equipment.

	Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot-peened and fill hoppers with shot. Load materials into production equipment. Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.

	Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes. Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.

Work Activities

Importance	Work Activity

Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.

Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

Nature of the Work


	(Abstract from Career Articles)

	Metal and Plastic Machine Workers
	Metal and plastic machine workers set up and operate machines that cut, shape, and form metal and plastic materials or pieces.

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Working Conditions


	(Abstract from Career Articles)

	Metal and Plastic Machine Workers
	Metal and plastic machine workers are employed mainly in factories. Workers must adhere to safety standards to protect themselves from workplace hazards. Most work full time, and some work evenings and weekends.

	Read More >>

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Interesting Fact

The U.S. minimum wage in 1955 was 75 cents.

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