Salary Breakdown
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Average
$43,090
ANNUAL
$20.72
HOURLY
Entry Level
$30,940
ANNUAL
$14.88
HOURLY
Mid Level
$39,560
ANNUAL
$19.02
HOURLY
Expert Level
$55,660
ANNUAL
$26.76
HOURLY
Projected Jobs
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
1,410
Projected job openings through 2030
Sample Career Roadmap
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Supporting Programs
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Top Expected Tasks
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
01
Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
02
Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
03
Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
04
Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
05
Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
06
Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.
07
Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
08
Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
09
Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
10
Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
11
Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Mathematics
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
KNOWLEDGE
Education and Training
KNOWLEDGE
Production and Processing
SKILL
Operations Monitoring
SKILL
Operation and Control
SKILL
Monitoring
SKILL
Quality Control Analysis
SKILL
Active Listening
ABILITY
Control Precision
ABILITY
Arm-Hand Steadiness
ABILITY
Finger Dexterity
ABILITY
Near Vision
ABILITY
Reaction Time
Related Careers
Manufacturing
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