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What You Need to Know About Machine Tool Operator
Machine Tool Operator Definition Operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic work pieces.
Life As a Machine Tool Operator
- Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
- Control coolant systems.
- Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
- Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
- Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
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What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Machine Tool Operator?
When polled, Machine Tool Operators say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
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 Jobs
- CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist)
- CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Operator)
- Plastic CNC Machine Operator
- Manufacturing Assistant
- Welding Robot Operator
Is There Going to be Demand for Machine Tool Operators?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 145,700 jobs in the United States for Machine Tool Operator. 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.
Average Machine Tool Operators Salary
The typical yearly salary for Machine Tool Operators is somewhere between $26,890 and $60,650.
Machine Tool Operators who work in Washington, Massachusetts, or North Dakota, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Machine Tool Operators in different U.S. states.
| 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
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Machine Tool Operators may use on a daily basis:
- 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
How to Become a Machine Tool Operator
What education or degrees do I need to become a Machine Tool Operator?
What work experience do I need to become a Machine Tool Operator?
Where do Machine Tool Operators Work?
The table below shows the approximate number of Machine Tool Operators employed by various industries.
Related Careers
Career changers with experience as a Machine Tool Operator sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
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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