Alternate Title(s) | Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operator |
Minimum Education Requirements | High school diploma, some schools offer programs in metal and plastics machines |
Salary | See Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information |
Job Skills | - Computer skills. Metal and plastic machine workers must often be able to use programmable devices, computers, and robots on the factory floor. - Dexterity. Metal and plastic machine workers who work in metal and plastic machined goods manufacturing use precise hand movements to make the necessary shapes, cuts, and edges that designs require. - Mechanical skills. Metal and plastic machine workers set up and operate machinery. They must be comfortable working with machines and have a good understanding of how the machines and all their parts work. - Physical stamina. Metal and plastic machine workers must be able to stand for long periods and perform repetitive work. - Physical strength. Metal and plastic machine workers must be strong enough to guide and load heavy and bulky parts and materials into machines. |
Job Duties | Metal and plastic machine workers typically do the following: - Set up machines according to blueprints - Monitor machines for unusual sound or vibration - Insert material into machines, manually or with a hoist - Operate metal or plastic molding, casting, or coremaking machines - Adjust machine settings for temperature, cycle times, and speed and feed rates - Remove finished products and smooth rough edges and imperfections - Test and compare finished workpieces to specifications - Remove and replace dull cutting tools - Document production numbers in a computer database |
Job Profile | Computer-controlled machine tool operators operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform functions on metal or plastic workpieces. Computer numerically controlled machine tool programmers develop computer programs to control the machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. |
The information presented within this occupational profile was synthesized from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s Handbook of Occupational Groups & Families.