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

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

Median Annual Wage: $34,500

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (45%); Post-secondary certificate (33%); Some college, no degree (12%)

Projected Growth: Decline (-3% or lower)

Related Job Titles: Driller; Drill Operator; Machine Operator; Drill Setup Operator; Drill Press Operator; Radial Drill Operator; Bore Mill Operator; Computer Numerical Control Drilling Operator (CNC Drilling Operator); Machinist; Punch Operator

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

More Production Careers

  • Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
  • 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.
  • Install tools in spindles.
  • Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
  • Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
  • 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.
  • Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.
  • Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.
  • Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.
  • Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.
  • Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • 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.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

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