Machining Tool Operator

Machining Tool Operator

Machining tool operators set up and operate or tend metal-cutting machines designed for repetitive machining work. They are employed by metal products and other manufacturing companies and in machine shops. This unit group also includes workers who etch or chemically mill metal pieces.

Main duties

• Study job orders and interpret blueprints to determine machining operations to be performed
• Set up and operate machine tools to perform repetitive machining operations, such as turning, milling, drilling, boring, planing, honing, broaching, grinding or other machining operations
• Verify dimensions of parts machined using micrometers, callipers and other precision measuring instruments
• Prepare etching solution and immerse metal parts or workpiece in etching solution to remove unwanted portions
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment and machinery
• May enter codes specifying speed, feed and cut of the toolpath for computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine tools.

Employment requirements

• Some secondary school education is required.
• College or other courses in machining may be required.
• Several months of on-the-job training are provided.
• Senior positions in this unit group, such as set-up operator, require experience as a machine operator.