Machine Tool Operators

Key Responsibilities

• Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules.
• Align layout marks with dies or blades.
• Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.
• Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.
• Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars.
• Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.
• Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials.
• Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
• Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds.
• Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles.
• Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.
• Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.
• Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.
• Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.
• Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.
• Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.
• Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
• Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.
• Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation.
• Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics.
• Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.