What You Need to Know About Machine Tool Operator
Occupation Description 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?
- Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.
- Monitor machine operation and control panel displays and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.
- Remove and replace dull cutting tools.
- Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.
- 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.
Featured schools near , edit
What a Machine Tool Operator Should Know
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.
Quality Control Analysis: Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Operation and Control: Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Types of Machine Tool Operator Jobs
- Automation Machine Operator
- Manufacturing Associate
- Medical Numerical Control Operator
- Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator (CNC Machine Operator)
- Machinist
Job Opportunities for Machine Tool Operators
In the United States, there were 145,700 jobs for Machine Tool Operator in 2016. 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.
Salary for a Machine Tool Operator
The average yearly salary of a Machine Tool Operator ranges between $26,890 and $60,650.
Machine Tool Operators who work in Washington, Massachusetts, or North Dakota, make the highest salaries.
How much do Machine Tool Operators make 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 |
What Tools & Technology do Machine Tool Operators Use?
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
- Delcam PowerMILL
- MUMPS M
- UGS Solid Edge
- G-code
- Vero Software SURFCAM
Becoming a Machine Tool Operator
What kind of Machine Tool Operator requirements are there?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where do Machine Tool Operators Work?
Below are examples of industries where Machine Tool Operators work:
You May Also Be Interested In…
Are you already one of the many Machine Tool Operator in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
Image Credit: US Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
Request Info
|
Southern New Hampshire University You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you get there. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you. Find your degree from over 200 online programs. Learn More > |
TradeCollege.org provides higher-education, college and university, degree, program, career, salary, and other helpful information to students, faculty, institutions, and other internet audiences. Presented information and data are subject to change. Inclusion on this website does not imply or represent a direct relationship with the company, school, or brand. Information, though believed correct at time of publication, may not be correct, and no warranty is provided. Contact the schools to verify any information before relying on it. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. TradeCollege.org is a for-profit site, and the displayed options may include sponsored or recommended results, not necessarily based on your preferences.
© TradeCollege.org – All Rights Reserved.