According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks. | 88% |
| Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes. | 87% |
| Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates. | 84% |
| Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes. | 84% |
| Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved. | 84% |
| Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications. | 82% |
| Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper. | 80% |
| Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media. | 80% |
| Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency. | 79% |
| Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures. | 78% |
| Draw machine tool paths on pattern film according to guidelines for tool speed and efficiency, using colored markers. | 78% |
| Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time. | 77% |
| Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers. | 76% |
| Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions. | 75% |
| Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines. | 74% |
| Align and secure pattern film on reference tables of optical programmers, and observe enlarger scope views of printed circuit boards. | 65% |
