Lathe / Turning Machine Tool Setter / Operator / Tender (Metal/Plastic)

Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator); CNC Setup Operator (Computer Numerical Control Setup Operator); Lathe Operator; Machine Operator; Numerical Control Operator (NC Operator); Screw Machine Operator; Screw Machine Tool Setter; Setup Operator; Turn Operator

Tasks

• Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
• Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
• Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
• Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
• Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces.
• Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
• Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.
• Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
• Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
• Program computer numerical control machines.
• Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
• Clean work area.
• Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools.
• Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.

Knowledge

• Production and Processing
• Engineering and Technology
• Mechanical
• Administration and Management
• Customer and Personal Service
• Education and Training
• English Language
• Mathematics

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Control Precision
• Near Vision
• Finger Dexterity
• Oral Comprehension
• Problem Sensitivity
• Visualization
• Manual Dexterity
• Multilimb Coordination
• Rate Control
• Reaction Time
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Perceptual Speed
• Selective Attention
• Trunk Strength