Lathe & Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders, Metal & Plastic

Also called: Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator (CNC Lathe Operator), Lathe Operator, Machine Operator,

What they do:

Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.

On the job, you would:

Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.

Math and Science

arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Engineering and Technology

mechanical

Arts and Humanities

English language

Basic Skills

keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

keep your arm or hand steady
put together small parts with your fingers

Controlled Movement

quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
change when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

They do well at jobs that need:

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Cooperation
Initiative
Stress Tolerance
Concern for Others

You might use software like this on the job:

Object or component oriented development software

G-code
M-code

Industrial control software

Autodesk HSMWorks
Computer numerical control CNC editor software

Inventory management software

Inventory tracking software

high school diploma/GED
certificate after high school

usually needed

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

$40,100

$26,980

$60,420