Description
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
- • Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
- • Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
- • Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
- • Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.
- • Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.
- • Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
- • Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
- • Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
- • Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.
- • Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes.
- • Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.
- • Draw machine tool paths on pattern film according to guidelines for tool speed and efficiency, using colored markers.
- • Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
- • Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
- • Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.
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Related Pathways
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
