Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

What the job really is

Set up, operate, or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot.

At a glance

• Sector: Production
• O*NET-SOC code: 51-4081
• 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:

• Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
• Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.
• Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.
• Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
• Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.
• Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.
• Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.
• Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.
• Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.
• Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.
• Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.
• Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.

Tools and technology

Autodesk AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, SAP software, Adjustable wrenches, Band saws, Blow-molding machines, Boring tools, Buffing machines

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
• Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
• Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
• Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics

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: Multiple 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.