According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments. | 91% |
| Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists. | 87% |
| Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences. | 86% |
| Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools. | 86% |
| Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary. | 84% |
| Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces. | 84% |
| Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules. | 82% |
| Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools. | 81% |
| Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates. | 81% |
| Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow. | 79% |
| Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs. | 79% |
| Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools. | 79% |
| Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required. | 78% |
| Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics. | 77% |
| Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms. | 77% |
| Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles. | 76% |
| Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation. | 73% |
| Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials. | 73% |
| Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds. | 72% |
| Align layout marks with dies or blades. | 69% |
| Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars. | 69% |
