BlissPoint Analytics

Occupation AtlasDrilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

O*NET · 51-4032.00

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

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

Also called Automatic Driller and Reamer · Automatic Drilling Machine Operator · Barrel Driller · Billet Driller · Bore Mill Operator · Borematic Machine Operator · Borematic Operator · Borer
86 more

Boring Machine Operator · Boring Machine Setup Operator · Boring Mill Operator · Boring Mill Setup Operator · Broacher · Chamfering Machine Operator · Choke Reamer · CNC Drilling Operator · CNC Drilling Operator (Computer Numerical Control Drilling Operator) · CNC Machinist · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · Collet Driller · Countersinker · Dice Maker · Directional Bore Operator · Directional Drill Operator · Directional Driller · Drill Operator · Drill Press Operator · Drill Press Setup Operator · Drill Press Tender · Drill Presser · Drill Punch Operator · Drill Setup Operator · Driller · Drilling Operator · Fixed Route Operator · Foot Drill Operator · Gang Drill Operator · Horizontal Boring Mill Operator · Horizontal Boring Mill Setup Operator · Hub Borer · Jewel Cupping Machine Operator · Jig Bore Operator · Jig Boring Machine Setup Operator · Jig Mill Operator · Jigger · Jigger Operator · Machine Operator · Manufacturing Associate · Manufacturing Operator · Metal Boring Mill Operator · Metal Drill Operator · Metal Drill Press Operator · Metal Drilling Machine Operator · Metal Horizontal Boring Mill Operator · Mobile Equipment Operator · Multiple Drill Operator · Multiple Spindle Drill Press Setup Operator · PCB Drill Press Operator · PCB Pinner · Plastic Bore Mill Operator · Plastic Boring Mill Operator · Plastic Radial Drill Operator · Plastic Radial Drill Press Operator · Plastic Reaming Machine Operator · Plate Driller · Press Machine Operator · Printed Circuit Boards Drill Press Operator (PCB Drill Press Operator) · Printed Circuit Boards Pinner (PCB Pinner) · Production Boring Machine Operator · Punch Operator · Punch Press Operator · Radial Drill Operator · Radial Drill Press Operator · Radial Drill Press Setup Operator · Reamer · Reaming Machine Operator · Reaming Machine Tender · Reaming Press Operator · Recenterer · Set Up Tech · Set Up Technician (Set Up Tech) · Setup Mill Operator · Setup Technician · Single Spindle Drill Press Setup Operator · Spot Facer · Stab Setter and Driller · Tapper · Tapper Operator · Test Borer · Tool Radial Drill Press Setup Operator · Trade Marker · Valve Seater Operator · Vertical Boring Mill Operator · Wheel Borer

Job Zone 2 — Some Preparation NeededHolland code RCI35 skills on file

Compare with another occupationCompare with Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders

Job Zone

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Zone 2: Some Preparation Needed

Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma, some previous work-related skill or experience, and a few months to a year of training with experienced workers.

Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.

Occupational interest profile

RCIRealistic · Conventional · Investigative — the three strongest interests, in order

  • R Realistic7.00
  • C Conventional4.27
  • I Investigative2.75
  • A Artistic1.00
  • S Social1.00
  • E Enterprising1.00

RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.

Education and experience

The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.

  • Less than a High School Diploma10%
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent57%
  • Post-Secondary Certificate2%
  • Some College Courses12%
  • Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree12%
  • Bachelor's Degree7%
Related work experience
None (29%)
On-site or in-plant training
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year (29%)
On-the-job training
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year (41%)

Typically associated skills

All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.

  • Operations Monitoring3.63.8Level 4 looks like: Monitor machine functions on an automated production line
  • Monitoringbasic3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Monitor a meeting and revise the agenda to ensure important topics are discussed
  • Operation and Control3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Adjust the speed of assembly line equipment based on the product being assembled
  • Reading Comprehensionbasic3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Read step-by-step instructions for completing a form
  • Active Listeningbasic3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Take a customer's order
  • Critical Thinkingbasic3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Determine whether a subordinate has a good excuse for being late
  • Speakingbasic3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Greet tourists and explain tourist attractions
  • Judgment and Decision Making3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
  • Complex Problem Solving3.02.6Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
  • Time Management3.02.3Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
  • Quality Control Analysis2.92.9Level 2 looks like: Inspect a draft email for errors (e.g., grammar, punctuation)
  • Troubleshooting2.82.9Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
Show the other 23
  • Equipment Maintenance2.82.5Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
  • Active Learningbasic2.82.1Level 2 looks like: Think about the implications of a news article for job opportunities
  • Social Perceptiveness2.82.1Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
  • Repairing2.62.3Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
  • Equipment Selection2.62.1Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
  • Mathematicsbasic2.52.6Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
  • Writingbasic2.32.8Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
  • Instructing2.32.3Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
  • Systems Analysis2.12.3Level 2 looks like: Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a job
  • Coordination2.12.1Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
  • Learning Strategiesbasic2.12.1Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
  • Persuasion2.12.0Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
  • Management of Personnel Resources2.02.1Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
  • Negotiation2.02.0Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
  • Service Orientation2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
  • Systems Evaluation2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Determine why estimates for the time to complete a task are overly optimistic
  • Installation1.91.6Level 2 looks like: Install a new air filter in an air conditioner
  • Technology Design1.91.0Level 2 looks like: Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customer
  • Management of Material Resources1.90.9
  • Operations Analysis1.81.4Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
  • Sciencebasic1.81.1Level 2 looks like: Conduct standard tests to determine soil quality
  • Management of Financial Resources1.60.6
  • Programming1.3—

Tasks

16 core · 1 supplemental

What people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).

  1. Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.4.8
  2. Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.4.7
  3. Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.4.6
  4. Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.4.5
  5. Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.4.5
  6. Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.4.5
  7. Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.4.4
  8. Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.4.4
  9. Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.4.3
  10. Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.4.3
  11. Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.4.2
  12. Install tools in spindles.4.1
Show the other 5
  1. Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.3.9
  2. Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.3.9
  3. Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.3.9
  4. Sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders.3.7
  5. Operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.2.8

Knowledge

Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.

  • Mathematics4.44.8Level 4 looks like: Analyze data to determine areas with the highest sales
  • Production and Processing4.44.3Level 4 looks like: Supervise an appliance assembly line
  • Mechanical4.35.6
  • English Language4.03.8Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
  • Engineering and Technology3.54.1Level 4 looks like: Design a custom office chair
  • Design3.33.8Level 4 looks like: Design plans for remodeling a kitchen
  • Education and Training3.33.7Level 4 looks like: Lead a quality improvement seminar
  • Administration and Management3.03.0Level 4 looks like: Monitor progress of a project to ensure timely completion
Show all 33
  • Computers and Electronics3.03.5Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
  • Customer and Personal Service2.82.5Level 1 looks like: Process a customer's dry-cleaning drop off
  • Physics2.83.0Level 4 looks like: Calculate the speed of a falling object
  • Public Safety and Security2.62.2Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
  • Building and Construction2.52.4Level 1 looks like: Choose the proper type of wood for adding a deck onto a house
  • Chemistry2.12.4Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
  • Transportation2.11.6Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
  • Administrative2.02.3Level 1 looks like: Direct phone calls to the appropriate staff member
  • Personnel and Human Resources1.91.5Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
  • Communications and Media1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Write a thank you note
  • Law and Government1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Describe the length of a U.S. presidential term
  • Psychology1.71.0Level 1 looks like: Monitor several children on a playground
  • Sales and Marketing1.71.0Level 1 looks like: Sell cakes at a bake sale
  • Telecommunications1.60.6Level 1 looks like: Send an email
  • Economics and Accounting1.50.7Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
  • Philosophy and Theology1.50.7Level 1 looks like: Watch a TV show on family values
  • Therapy and Counseling1.40.6Level 1 looks like: Put ice on a sprained ankle
  • Biology1.3—
  • Foreign Language1.30.4Level 1 looks like: Say "please" and "thank you" in a foreign language
  • History and Archeology1.3—
  • Medicine and Dentistry1.3—
  • Geography1.2—
  • Sociology and Anthropology1.2—
  • Fine Arts1.0—
  • Food Production1.0—

Abilities

Enduring capacities the work calls for.

  • Control Precision3.53.6Level 4 looks like: Adjust farm tractor controls
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness3.43.0Level 2 looks like: Light a candle
  • Near Vision3.43.8
  • Finger Dexterity3.33.6Level 4 looks like: Attach small dials to audio equipment on an assembly line
  • Information Ordering3.33.1Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
  • Manual Dexterity3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Pack oranges in crates as quickly as possible
  • Problem Sensitivity3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
  • Reaction Time3.33.5Level 4 looks like: Press a button to stop operation when a warning light goes off
Show all 52
  • Selective Attention3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Watch security monitors for intruders throughout the night shift
  • Oral Comprehension3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
  • Rate Control3.12.9
  • Visualization3.13.4Level 4 looks like: Follow a diagram to assemble a metal storage cabinet
  • Written Comprehension3.12.9Level 2 looks like: Understand signs on the highway
  • Category Flexibility3.03.0Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
  • Deductive Reasoning3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
  • Far Vision3.02.8Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
  • Inductive Reasoning3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
  • Oral Expression3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Place an order at a restaurant drive-thru
  • Perceptual Speed3.03.3Level 4 looks like: Read five pressure indicators in 10 seconds to make sure each is within safe limits
  • Written Expression3.02.8
  • Flexibility of Closure2.92.5Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
  • Multilimb Coordination2.93.0Level 2 looks like: Row a boat
  • Speech Clarity2.92.5Level 1 looks like: Call numbers in a bingo game
  • Speech Recognition2.92.3Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
  • Static Strength2.92.9
  • Trunk Strength2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
  • Auditory Attention2.82.6Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
  • Hearing Sensitivity2.82.9Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
  • Depth Perception2.62.9Level 2 looks like: Merge a car into traffic on a city street
  • Fluency of Ideas2.62.1Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
  • Mathematical Reasoning2.62.3Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
  • Number Facility2.62.5Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
  • Visual Color Discrimination2.62.9
  • Time Sharing2.42.9Level 3 looks like: Watch street signs while driving at 30 miles an hour
  • Extent Flexibility2.32.4Level 2 looks like: Reach to adjust the radio in a car
  • Response Orientation2.32.5Level 2 looks like: When a doorbell and phone ring at the same time, quickly select which to answer first
  • Wrist-Finger Speed2.31.8Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
  • Originality2.12.0Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
  • Stamina2.12.0Level 1 looks like: Walk 1/4 mile
  • Dynamic Strength2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Use pruning shears to trim a bush
  • Explosive Strength2.01.5Level 2 looks like: Hit a nail with a hammer
  • Glare Sensitivity2.01.0Level 2 looks like: Drive on a familiar road on a cloudy day
  • Gross Body Coordination2.01.8Level 2 looks like: Get in and out of a truck
  • Gross Body Equilibrium2.01.4Level 2 looks like: Stand on a ladder
  • Memorization2.02.0Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
  • Night Vision2.01.0Level 2 looks like: Read street signs at dusk (just after sunset)
  • Peripheral Vision2.01.0Level 2 looks like: Keep in step while marching in a band
  • Sound Localization2.01.1Level 2 looks like: Listen to a sound system to determine which speaker is working
  • Spatial Orientation2.01.4Level 2 looks like: Use the floor plan to locate a store in a mall
  • Speed of Closure2.02.0Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
  • Speed of Limb Movement1.60.8
  • Dynamic Flexibility1.0—

Work activities

Kinds of activity the work is made of.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes4.86.0Level 7 looks like: Operate a precision milling machine
  • Getting Information4.42.9
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates4.04.0Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
  • Documenting/Recording Information3.93.6Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
  • Handling and Moving Objects3.95.4Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials3.93.5Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems3.94.3Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings3.83.6Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
Show all 41
  • Working with Computers3.83.9Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards3.63.3Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a complicated insurance claim for compliance with policy terms
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events3.63.2Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
  • Processing Information3.63.7Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge3.64.6Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
  • Analyzing Data or Information3.53.5Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others3.53.1Level 4 looks like: Interpret how foreign tax laws apply to U.S. exports
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment3.33.3Level 4 looks like: Specify the furniture and equipment for a new school
  • Performing General Physical Activities3.33.6Level 4 looks like: Paint the outside of a house
  • Thinking Creatively3.34.3Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment3.22.5Level 1 looks like: Use display settings to adjust a television picture
  • Training and Teaching Others3.23.2Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People3.03.1Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment3.03.4Level 4 looks like: Change the oil on a tractor
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships2.93.2Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work2.93.2Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment2.82.1Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
  • Coaching and Developing Others2.72.5Level 1 looks like: Show a coworker how to operate a piece of equipment
  • Developing Objectives and Strategies2.72.7
  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information2.62.5Level 1 looks like: Estimate the size of household furniture to be shipped
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates2.51.7Level 1 looks like: Work occasionally as a backup supervisor
  • Scheduling Work and Activities2.22.5Level 1 looks like: Make appointments for patients using a predetermined schedule
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others2.01.3Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that requires little advising of others
  • Performing Administrative Activities1.91.1Level 1 looks like: Complete routine paperwork
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others1.91.1Level 1 looks like: Apologize to a customer who complains about waiting too long
  • Assisting and Caring for Others1.81.2Level 1 looks like: Help a coworker complete an assignment
  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others1.81.5Level 1 looks like: Exchange information during a shift change
  • Developing and Building Teams1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Encourage two coworkers to stick with a tough assignment
  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization1.40.6Level 1 looks like: Have little contact with people outside the organization
  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources1.41.0Level 1 looks like: Work as a server responsible for keeping track of utensils
  • Selling or Influencing Others1.40.6Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public1.1—
  • Staffing Organizational Units1.1—

Work context

The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets4.9
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate4.7
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams4.4
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls4.4
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable4.3
  • Time Pressure4.3
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team4.3
  • Exposed to Contaminants4.2
  • Contact With Others4.1
  • Freedom to Make Decisions4.1

Technology

6 tools

Software used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.

Hot (4)

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Word
  • SAP software
Other tools (2)
  • Automated inventory software
  • Computerized numerical control CNC software

Related occupations

O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.

  1. Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  2. Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  3. Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
  4. Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  5. Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
  6. Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  7. Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  8. Tool and Die Makers
  9. Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand
  10. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

ESCO equivalents

From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.

Closest occupations

Compare any occupation →

Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.

Use this in your own job architecture

BlissPoint Organization Viewer can link a role directly to this occupation and suggest these skills as that role's starting requirements.

Try it free →

This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.