Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

What the job really is

Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.

At a glance

• Sector: Production
• O*NET-SOC code: 51-4032
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
• Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
• Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
• Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.
• Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
• Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.
• Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.
• Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.
• Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.
• Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.
• Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.
• Install tools in spindles.

Tools and technology

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, SAP software, Adjustable hand wrenches, Adjustable jigs, Automated inventory software, Ball peen hammers, Bench grinders, Boring tools, Computer terminals, Computerized numerical control CNC boring machines

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
• Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
• Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Tool and Die Makers

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.