Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Human Advantage 66%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.7 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
Also Known As: Automatic Driller and Reamer, Automatic Drilling Machine Operator, Barrel Driller, Billet Driller, Bore Mill Operator, Borematic Machine Operator, Borematic Operator, Borer +81 more
Video
Core Tasks
- Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
- Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
- Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
- Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.
- Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
- 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.
- 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.
- Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.
- Install tools in spindles.
- Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.
- Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.
- Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.
- Sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders.
Supplemental Tasks (1)
- Operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.
Education & Training
Job Zone 2 Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Experience: Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (6)
Tools & Equipment (39)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Industrial Machinery Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 1
Conveyor Operators and Tenders 77% match
Zone 2
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic You are here
Zone 3
Crane and Tower Operators 79% match
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