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51-4032.00 · Task explorer

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic: reported tasks and exploration worksheet

Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.

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This source lists 17 tasks, including 16 marked Core and 1 marked Supplemental. Labels and dates are retained below. Employers can combine or divide these responsibilities differently; explore the task itself before assuming it belongs in every version of the role.

Task source dates: 08/2022.

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17 tasks shown

Core · Task 11974 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.

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Core · Task 11975 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.

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Core · Task 11980 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.

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Core · Task 11988 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.

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Core · Task 11983 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.

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Core · Task 11978 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.

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Core · Task 11976 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.

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Core · Task 11979 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.

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Core · Task 11984 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.

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Core · Task 11985 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.

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Core · Task 11981 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.

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Core · Task 11977 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Install tools in spindles.

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Core · Task 11987 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.

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Core · Task 11982 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.

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Core · Task 11986 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

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Core · Task 11990 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders.

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Supplemental · Task 11989 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.

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Choose one to three activities that tell you something different about the work. Avoid selecting several ways of describing the same interest.
For each, write an example you can discuss or a question that would change your understanding of the role.
Keep source task IDs with your notes so you can return to the same description. Do not include private employer or customer information.

The exported worksheet distinguishes the reported task from your own notes. It supports exploration, not a hiring decision or a validated assessment.

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Download before leaving this page. Unsaved writing remains only in the page and is cleared on refresh. Notes and learning actions are not sent to a server. This guide describes an occupation and supports study planning; it does not provide clinical, legal or equipment-operating procedures.

Source and practice material

Occupational context uses the O*NET® 31.0 Database from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. View the occupation.

Skill Workbench selected and adapted the occupational information and added its own fictional cases, calculations, guidance and worksheets. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.