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51-4081.00 · Task explorer

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

Set up, operate, or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot.

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This source lists 21 tasks, including 18 marked Core and 3 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: 08/2021.

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21 tasks shown

Core · Task 10206 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.

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Core · Task 10210 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.

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Core · Task 10208 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.

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Core · Task 10211 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.

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Core · Task 10207 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.

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Core · Task 10209 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.

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Core · Task 10212 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.

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Core · Task 10221 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.

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Core · Task 10216 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.

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Core · Task 10217 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.

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Core · Task 10215 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.

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Core · Task 10213 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.

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Core · Task 10223 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics.

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Core · Task 10214 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.

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Core · Task 10222 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles.

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Core · Task 10218 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation.

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Core · Task 10219 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds.

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Core · Task 10220 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars.

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Supplemental · Task 10225 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules.

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Supplemental · Task 23937 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials.

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Supplemental · Task 10224 · 08/2021 · Incumbent

Align layout marks with dies or blades.

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Make the shortlist useful

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.