Overview

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

Also Known As

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Brake Press Operator, Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator (CNC Lathe Operator), Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator (CNC Machine Operator), Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist), Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator (CNC Mill Operator), Computer Numerical Control Operator (CNC Operator), Computer Numerical Control Set-Up and Operator (CNC Set-Up and Operator), Machine Operator, Machine Set-Up Operator, Machinist

Activities

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• Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
• Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
• Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
• Install mechanical components in production equipment.
• Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
• Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.
• Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
• Program equipment to perform production tasks.
• Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
• Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
• Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment.
• Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
• Replace worn equipment components.
• Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production.
• Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
• Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products.
• Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.
• Stack finished items for further processing or shipment.
• Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.
• Maintain production or processing equipment.
• Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.
• Clean production equipment.
• Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
• Load materials into production equipment.
• Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.

Skills

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• Operations Monitoring – Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.
• Monitoring – Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.
• Critical Thinking – Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
• Quality Control Analysis – Testing how well a product or service works.
• Operation and Control – Using equipment or systems.