Drilling / Boring Machine Tool Setter / Operator / Tender (Metal/Plastic)

Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Bore Mill Operator; CNC Drilling Operator (Computer Numerical Control Drilling Operator); CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist); Drill Operator; Drill Press Operator; Drill Setup Operator; Machine Operator; Punch Operator; Radial Drill Operator; Setup Mill Operator

Tasks

• Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
• Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
• Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
• Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.
• Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
• Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.
• Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.
• Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.
• Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.
• Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.
• Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.
• Install tools in spindles.
• Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.
• Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.
• Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

Knowledge

• Production and Processing
• Mathematics
• Mechanical
• English Language
• Engineering and Technology
• Education and Training
• Design
• Administration and Management

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Monitoring
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking

Abilities

• Control Precision
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Near Vision
• Problem Sensitivity
• Information Ordering
• Selective Attention
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Reaction Time
• Oral Comprehension
• Written Comprehension
• Visualization
• Rate Control
• Oral Expression
• Written Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Perceptual Speed
• Far Vision