Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic
Operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic work pieces.
Fast Facts
Hourly Pay
Entry Level: $14.07/hr
Median: $17.13/hr
Experienced: $23.25/hr
Current Employment
1,375 (2019)
Projected Employment
1,485 (2030)
Growth for Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic
2019 Jobs | 2030 Jobs | Change (2019-2030) | % Change (2019-2030) |
1,375 | 1,254 | (121) | (9%) |
Industries Employing Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic
Industry | Occupation Jobs in Industry (2019) | % of Occupation in Industry (2019) | % of Total Jobs in Industry (2019) |
Machine Shops | 318 | 23.1% | 14% |
Special Die and Tool, Die Set, Jig, and Fixture Manufacturing | 277 | 20.1% | 9.1% |
Other Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing | 79 | 5.7% | 3% |
Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing | 47 | 3.4% | 3.5% |
Precision Tuned Product Manufacturing | 43 | 3.2% | 9.5% |
Occupational Tasks
- Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
- Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
- Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
- Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
- Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.