Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
Common Job Titles
- CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)
- Drill Operator
- Drill Setup Operator
- Machine Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate CNC drilling and boring machines in production settings using computerized numerical control software to drill, bore, ream, and countersink metal and plastic workpieces.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate machined part quality against technical specifications and tolerances using go/no-go gauges and inspection tools following quality control standards.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate workpiece handling and positioning using hoisting equipment and bench vises while maintaining safety protocols and material handling best practices.Proficient
- Hands-onCalibrate precision measurement instruments including digital micrometers, dial calipers, and gauge blocks to verify workpiece specifications and ensure compliance with manufacturing tolerances.Developing
- Hands-onExecute machine setup procedures including tool selection, fixture positioning, and jig adjustment for multiple spindle drill presses and horizontal boring mills to meet production requirements.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze machine operational data and process parameters to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and optimize drilling and boring operations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations for feed rates, cutting speeds, and dimensional tolerances when programming and operating metal and plastic machining equipment.Developing
- Hands-onPerform routine preventive maintenance on drilling and boring equipment including lubrication, tool replacement, and mechanical adjustments to ensure continuous operation.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work orders to determine machining specifications, dimensional requirements, and production sequences.Developing
- MindsetEngage in continuous process monitoring and adjustment to maintain production quality and respond promptly to equipment status changes.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,310
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,360. 25th percentile: U.S. $41,100. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,630. 75th percentile: U.S. $56,820. 90th percentile: U.S. $65,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,360 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $65,200 |
| Workers on average earn | $50,330 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mathematics4.4/5
- Production and Processing4.4/5
- Mechanical4.3/5
- English Language4.0/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Automated inventory software
- Computerized numerical control CNC software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Adjustable jigs
- Ball peen hammers
- Bench grinders
- Boring tools
- Computer terminals
- Computerized numerical control CNC boring machines
- Computerized numerical control CNC drill presses