Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
What is a Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic are specialized workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining lathes and other turning machines that shape and finish metal and plastic materials. Their primary role involves configuring the machines to accept raw materials, selecting appropriate tools, and adjusting machine settings to produce precise dimensions and finishes. These professionals often read blueprints and technical drawings to understand specifications and ensure that products meet quality standards. They also monitor the machine operation during production, making adjustments as necessary to maintain accuracy and efficiency. Safety is a critical aspect of their work, requiring adherence to protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment. Skilled in both manual and automated lathes, they may also perform routine maintenance on the equipment, troubleshoot issues, and keep detailed records of production processes and outcomes. The work environment for these professionals is typically found in manufacturing settings, such as machine shops or factories, where they collaborate with engineers and other skilled tradespeople to contribute to the production of various metal and plastic components.
Tasks
- Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
- Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
- Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
- Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
- Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
Technology Skills
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Object or component oriented development software
- G-code
- M-code
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Industrial control software
- Autodesk HSMWorks
- Computer numerical control CNC editor software
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Inventory management software
- Inventory tracking software
Tools Used
- Automatic lathe or chucking machine
- Tool template sets
- Lathe bit
- Calipers
- Dial indicator or dial gauge
Knowledge
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Equipment Maintenance
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Abilities
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Finger Dexterity
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Some college, no degree
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Less than high school diploma
Work Activities
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
- Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
- Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
- Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
- Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$35760.0 - $64470.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.