Occupation: Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

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

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.

51-4034.00 | 18 tasks | 9 job titles
Reported Job Titles (9)
  • CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator)
  • CNC Setup Operator (Computer Numerical Control Setup Operator)
  • Lathe Operator
  • Machine Operator
  • Numerical Control Operator (NC Operator)
  • Screw Machine Operator
  • Screw Machine Tool Setter
  • Setup Operator
  • Turn Operator
Core Tasks (18)
  • 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.
  • Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces.
  • Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
  • Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.
  • Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
  • Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
  • Program computer numerical control machines.
  • Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
  • Clean work area.
  • Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools.
  • Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
  • Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
  • Mount attachments, such as relieving or tracing attachments, to perform operations, such as duplicating contours of templates or trimming workpieces.
  • Turn valve handles to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds.