Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Prior Experience Needed
Work experience required to enter this job
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
How AI Impacts Each Task
18 tasks analyzed
Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances. | - | - | - |
| Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines. | - | - | - |
| Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators. | - | - | - |
| Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met. | - | - | - |
| Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments. | - | - | - |
Essential Soft Skills
Traits that are hard for AI to replicate
Wage & Employment (2024)
Median Wage
$48,620
per year
Mean Wage
$50,190
per year
Employment
19K
workers
Wage Range
$36,200 - $65,450
10th - 90th pct
Wage Distribution
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Awaiting Assessment
This occupation has 18 tasks in the database and is queued for the next scoring run. Risk scores, protective factors, and skill gaps will appear once the assessment completes.