Description
Set up, program, and operate CNC machine tools (mills, lathes, or multi-axis machines) to produce precision parts from metal, plastic, or other materials to print. Perform inspections, adjust tooling and offsets, troubleshoot issues, and maintain equipment and documentation.
- • Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and process sheets with GD&T.
- • Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, or multi-axis machines for production or prototypes.
- • Select, mount, align, and secure tooling, fixtures, and workpieces.
- • Establish work offsets and tool length offsets; touch off tools and set zeros.
- • Calculate and adjust feeds, speeds, and depths of cut for materials and tooling.
- • Load, prove out, and edit CNC programs; make G/M-code adjustments as needed.
- • Create or modify simple programs at the control or with basic CAM.
- • Perform first-article and in-process inspections with micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
- • Measure finished parts to verify conformance and document results.
- • Monitor machine operations and control panels; detect and correct malfunctions.
- • Listen for abnormal sounds or vibration; replace dull or worn tools.
- • Change tooling and inserts; update tool offsets and wear compensation.
- • Check and maintain coolant levels, concentration, and flow.
- • Ensure proper lubrication, chip evacuation, and cooling during machining.
- • Stop machines to remove parts, adjust setups, or change tools per sequence.
- • Deburr, clean, and finish parts to specified requirements.
- • Record production, scrap, and quality data in logs or ERP systems.
- • Collaborate with engineers, programmers, and supervisors to resolve issues.
- • Optimize cycle times and surface finish through tooling and parameter changes.
- • Transfer programs between PCs, servers, and machine controls via network or media.
- • Set up the next job while machines run; stage tools and materials.
- • Perform routine preventive maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
- • Keep machines, tooling, and work areas clean and organized; follow 5S practices.
- • Safely handle and load material and parts using manual lifts, hoists, or cranes.
- • Verify clamping, support, runout, and alignment of setups.
- • Use probing cycles or edge finders to locate datums and verify features.
- • Follow safety procedures, PPE requirements, and lockout/tagout as needed.
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Advanced Manufacturing
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
