This occupation is part of the Production cluster
-
Compatibility
not enough datawhy?
- Create a Budget
- x Create a Plan
- x Find Job Openings
About the Job
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
It is also Called
- 4-Slide Operator
- Aircraft Machinist
- Auto Machinist
- Automation Technician
- Automotive Machinist
- Automotive Machinist Apprentice
- Bench Hand
- Carbide Operator
- CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Operator)
- CNC Machinist
What They Do
- Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
- Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
- Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
- Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
- Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
- Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
- Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
- Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
- Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
- Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
Interests
People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: RCI.
This means people who work in this occupation generally have Realistic interests, but also prefer Conventional and Investigative environments.
Work Values
People who work in this occupation generally prize Support, but also value Working Conditions and Independence in their jobs.
Things They Need to Know
- Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
- English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Things They Need to Be Able to Do
- Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
- Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
- 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.
- Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
- Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Education Required
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Wages
In 2012, the average annual wage in Washington was $49,290 with most people making between $28,140 and $74,700
Outlook
During 2008, this occupation employed approximately 5,820 people in Washington. It is projected that there will be 5,600 employed in 2018.
This occupation will have about 0 openings due to growth and about 50 replacement openings for approximately 50 total annual openings.
Similar Occupations
- Brickmasons and Blockmasons
- Rough Carpenters
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
- Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators and Tenders
- Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation
People who viewed this occupation also viewed:
-
collegeStanford University
-
majorMachine Shop Technology/Assistant
-
onetElectric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
-
onetAutomotive Master Mechanics
-
majorAutomobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
-
collegeGeorge C Wallace State Community College-Dothan
-
majorRailroad and Railway Transportation
-
collegeWest Georgia Technical College
-
collegeUniversity of California-Davis
-
onetMechanical Engineers
-
majorMachine Tool Technology/Machinist