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.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- 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.
- Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
- Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.