According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers. | 95% |
| Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders. | 95% |
| Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers. | 92% |
| Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations. | 91% |
| Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools. | 90% |
| Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products. | 89% |
| Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process. | 89% |
| Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition. | 89% |
| Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics. | 88% |
| Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools. | 88% |
| Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines. | 86% |
| Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications. | 86% |
| Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency. | 86% |
| Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability. | 85% |
| Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment. | 82% |
| Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs. | 81% |
| Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs. | 81% |
| Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed. | 80% |
| Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations. | 80% |
| Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts. | 80% |
| Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information. | 80% |
| Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal. | 79% |
| Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design. | 79% |
| Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment. | 78% |
| Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled. | 78% |
| Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance. | 77% |
| Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines. | 77% |
| Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms. | 71% |
| Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products. | 71% |
