Multiple Machine Tool Setter / Operator / Tender (Metal/Plastic)

Set up, operate, or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Cell Technician; CNC Machine Setter (Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Setter); Fabrication Set-Up Person; Injection Molding Technician; Machine Operator; Machine Technician; Mold Setter; Production Operator; Shear Operator; Tooling Set-Up Person

Tasks

• Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
• 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.
• Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
• 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.
• Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.
• Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.
• Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.
• Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.
• Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.
• Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.
• Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics.
• Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.
• Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles.

Knowledge

• Production and Processing
• Mechanical
• Mathematics
• English Language
• Design

Skills

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

Abilities

• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Control Precision
• Near Vision
• Manual Dexterity
• Problem Sensitivity
• Visualization
• Information Ordering
• Oral Comprehension
• Written Comprehension
• Selective Attention
• Finger Dexterity
• Multilimb Coordination
• Reaction Time
• Far Vision
• Speech Recognition
• Deductive Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Flexibility of Closure
• Perceptual Speed
• Rate Control
• Extent Flexibility
• Hearing Sensitivity
• Auditory Attention
• Speech Clarity