Description
Set up and operate pantograph engraving machines to trace templates and engrave letters, numbers, and designs on metal, plastic, wood, and other materials. Measure, adjust, and finish work to specified size, depth, and quality.
- • Clean and polish engraved areas and finished pieces.
- • Set up and operate pantograph engravers to reproduce designs on various materials.
- • Guide stylus over templates to duplicate letters, numbers, logos, and patterns on workpieces.
- • Set reduction scales and linkages to achieve specified sizes and proportions.
- • Adjust cut depth, height, and width using machine-arm gauges and worktable adjustments.
- • Measure and compute dimensions of layouts, characters, and patterns.
- • Position, align, and clamp plates, tags, dies, or rollers in fixtures.
- • Select, insert, and secure cutters or bits; set appropriate speeds and feeds.
- • Determine machine settings and start engraving at designated starting points on templates.
- • Sketch, trace, or scribe layout lines and reference marks on workpieces.
- • Transfer images using the pantograph stylus or by tracing from prints or sample parts.
- • Examine engravings for quality, burrs, rough spots, and completeness; deburr as needed.
- • Inspect depth and uniformity with gauges, microscopes, magnifiers, or by touch.
- • Make test passes or proofs to verify accuracy; rework as required.
- • Maintain and calibrate pantograph mechanisms, linkages, and templates.
- • Prepare workpieces by cutting, sanding, cleaning, or applying layout coatings.
- • Select fonts and templates; plan spacing and arrangement for readability.
- • Fill engraved characters with paint, wax, or paste to enhance contrast.
- • Remove completed workpieces, label, and stage for the next process or shipment.
- • Document reduction ratios, cutters, and settings for repeat jobs.
- • Replace worn cutters; sharpen tools or coordinate sharpening services.
- • Keep records of job times and materials used.
- • Follow sketches, blueprints, or customer samples to plan the engraving method.
- • Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean work area.
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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
