According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures. | 95% |
| Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces. | 93% |
| Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments. | 92% |
| Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences. | 92% |
| Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences. | 91% |
| Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems. | 91% |
| Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers. | 91% |
| Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts. | 90% |
| Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links. | 90% |
| Remove and replace dull cutting tools. | 89% |
| Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation. | 89% |
| Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction. | 88% |
| Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions. | 88% |
| Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools. | 87% |
| Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation. | 87% |
| Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs. | 85% |
| Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools. | 84% |
| Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes. | 83% |
| Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions. | 83% |
| Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels. | 83% |
| Set up future jobs while machines are operating. | 81% |
| Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production. | 80% |
| Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems. | 78% |
| Control coolant systems. | 78% |
| Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags. | 76% |
| Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot. | 69% |
| Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes. | 60% |
