Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders (metal and plastic) set up, operate, or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot.
Multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders establish and execute machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make plastic and metallic workpieces.
Machine operators plan operational sequences by reading blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions. They position workpieces against stops in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms; install and adjust the alignment of drills, cutters, dies, and holding devices, using templates and hand tools; observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary. Production machine operators examine workpieces for any shortcomings and evaluate workpieces to determine the efficiency of machine operation.
The job of a tool setter requires a high school diploma with some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience. The skills required include operations monitoring, quality control analysis, equipment maintenance, operations and control, problem-solving, critical thinking, troubleshooting and social perceptiveness.
A machine operator finds jobs in production assembly in manufacturing units, and their pay is commensurate to the nature of the work. They require knowledge of production and processing, mechanical, mathematics and design.
The job of a production machine operator may carry hazards of working in factories, exposure to loud noise, and long working hours. Workers need to wear personal protection equipment.
A good tool setter knows computers and machine operating software and manual dexterity.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- NSQF Level 4 Machining Technician
- ITI Course Machinist
Tasks
- Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
- Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.
- Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.
- Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.
- Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.
- Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
- Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.
- Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.
- Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.
- Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.
Progression Routes
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