Tactical Operator

Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.

Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot-peened and fill hoppers with shot.

Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.

Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation and save modified programs.

Implement changes to machine programs and enter new specifications, using computers.

Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.

Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.

Stack or load finished items or place items on conveyor systems.

Set up future jobs while machines are operating.

Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.

Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.

Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.

Control coolant systems.

Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.

Monitor machine operation and control panel displays and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.

Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.

Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.

Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration and adjust machines to compensate for problems.

Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.

Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.

Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.

Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.

Remove and replace dull cutting tools.

Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.

Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.

Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.

Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.