What Do Machine Tool Operator Do?
Machine Tool Operator Example Operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic work pieces.
What Do Machine Tool Operators Do On a Daily Basis?
- Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.
- 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.
- Monitor machine operation and control panel displays and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.
- Implement changes to machine programs and enter new specifications, using computers.
- Set up future jobs while machines are operating.
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Qualities of a Machine Tool Operator
These are the skills Machine Tool Operators say are the most useful in their careers:
Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Quality Control Analysis: Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Operation and Control: Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Types of Machine Tool Operator
- Numerical Control Milling Machine Set-Up Operator
- Computer Numerical Control Set-Up and Operator (CNC Set-Up and Operator)
- Manufacturing Assistant
- CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist)
- CNC Technician (Computer Numerical Control Technician)
Job Outlook for Machine Tool Operators
There were about 145,700 jobs for Machine Tool Operator in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 1.1% which is below the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 1,600 new jobs for Machine Tool Operator by 2026. The BLS estimates 14,500 yearly job openings in this field.

The states with the most job growth for Machine Tool Operator are Utah, North Dakota, and Montana. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, New Mexico, or Washington. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Do Machine Tool Operators Make A Lot Of Money?
The salary for Machine Tool Operators ranges between about $26,890 and $60,650 a year.

Machine Tool Operators who work in Washington, Massachusetts, or North Dakota, make the highest salaries.
How much do Machine Tool Operators make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $38,170 |
Arizona | $38,820 |
Arkansas | $37,780 |
California | $42,930 |
Colorado | $43,990 |
Connecticut | $47,240 |
Delaware | $35,700 |
Florida | $38,960 |
Georgia | $37,510 |
Idaho | $38,730 |
Illinois | $39,570 |
Indiana | $39,700 |
Iowa | $40,740 |
Kansas | $42,650 |
Kentucky | $36,110 |
Louisiana | $45,920 |
Maine | $47,530 |
Maryland | $44,080 |
Massachusetts | $51,150 |
Michigan | $40,500 |
Minnesota | $45,670 |
Mississippi | $36,250 |
Missouri | $39,730 |
Montana | $40,430 |
Nebraska | $38,970 |
Nevada | $42,850 |
New Hampshire | $45,220 |
New Jersey | $45,750 |
New Mexico | $36,360 |
New York | $38,700 |
North Carolina | $38,780 |
North Dakota | $49,590 |
Ohio | $41,760 |
Oklahoma | $39,730 |
Oregon | $43,560 |
Pennsylvania | $39,870 |
Rhode Island | $42,710 |
South Carolina | $43,220 |
South Dakota | $38,630 |
Tennessee | $39,140 |
Texas | $41,560 |
Utah | $35,220 |
Virginia | $41,110 |
Washington | $64,290 |
West Virginia | $43,590 |
Wisconsin | $44,190 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Machine Tool Operators
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Machine Tool Operators:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- SAP
- Microsoft Project
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Dassault Systemes CATIA
- Dassault Systemes SOLIDWORKS
- PTC Creo Parametric
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- 1CadCam Unigraphics
- CNC Mastercam
- ERP software
- MUMPS M
- UGS Solid Edge
- Delcam PowerMILL
- G-code
- Vero Software SURFCAM
Becoming a Machine Tool Operator
Individuals working as a Machine Tool Operator have obtained the following education levels:

What work experience do I need to become a Machine Tool Operator?

Machine Tool Operators Sector

The table below shows the approximate number of Machine Tool Operators employed by various industries.

Other Jobs You May be Interested In
Those who work as a Machine Tool Operator sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
References:
Image Credit: US Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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