According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Remove workpieces from machines, and check to ensure that they conform to specifications, using measuring instruments such as microscopes, gauges, calipers, and micrometers. | 89% |
| Verify alignment of workpieces on machines, using measuring instruments such as rules, gauges, or calipers. | 87% |
| Move controls to set cutting specifications, to position cutting tools and workpieces in relation to each other, and to start machines. | 86% |
| Observe milling or planing machine operation, and adjust controls to ensure conformance with specified tolerances. | 86% |
| Select and install cutting tools and other accessories according to specifications, using hand tools or power tools. | 86% |
| Position and secure workpieces on machines, using holding devices, measuring instruments, hand tools, and hoists. | 85% |
| Study blueprints, layouts, sketches, or work orders to assess workpiece specifications and to determine tooling instructions, tools and materials needed, and sequences of operations. | 84% |
| Replace worn tools, using hand tools, and sharpen dull tools, using bench grinders. | 84% |
| Compute dimensions, tolerances, and angles of workpieces or machines according to specifications and knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics. | 83% |
| Move cutters or material manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to mill workpieces to specifications. | 81% |
| Mount attachments and tools, such as pantographs, engravers, or routers, to perform other operations, such as drilling or boring. | 81% |
| Select cutting speeds, feed rates, and depths of cuts, applying knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics. | 81% |
| Record production output. | 78% |
| Make templates or cutting tools. | 77% |
| Turn valves or pull levers to start and regulate the flow of coolant or lubricant to work areas. | 74% |
