Computer Control Programmers and Operators

Job Zone

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed

Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators — one of 2 occupations here: Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators, Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.94
Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.92
Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.91
Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.90
Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.89
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.89
Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.89
Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.89
Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.88
Remove and replace dull cutting tools.87
Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.86
Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.85

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Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.85
Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.84
Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.84
Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.82
Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.80
Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.80
Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.79
Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.79
Set up future jobs while machines are operating.77
Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.75
Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.73
Control coolant systems.73
Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.71
Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot.62
Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.51

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Operation and Control78
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Monitoring78
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Critical Thinking66
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Monitoring66
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Quality Control Analysis60
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Active Listening53
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving53
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Troubleshooting53
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Equipment Maintenance50
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Judgment and Decision Making50
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Repairing50
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Speaking50
Talking to others to convey information effectively.

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Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Active Learning47
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Coordination47
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Reading Comprehension47
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Systems Analysis47
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation47
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Equipment Selection44
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Instructing44
Teaching others how to do something.
Mathematics44
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Learning Strategies41
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Writing41
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Operations Analysis38
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Management of Personnel Resources35
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Installation28
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Programming28
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Negotiation25
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Service Orientation25
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Persuasion22
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Technology Design19
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Management of Material Resources16
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Science16
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Management of Financial Resources13
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Mathematics79
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Production and Processing76
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical70
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
English Language58
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Engineering and Technology57
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Education and Training53
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Design52
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Administration and Management50
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Computers and Electronics49
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Physics39
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Administrative36
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Personnel and Human Resources35
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.

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Customer and Personal Service32
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Chemistry31
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Public Safety and Security28
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Economics and Accounting24
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Psychology24
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Communications and Media22
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Sales and Marketing21
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Transportation21
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Law and Government18
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Building and Construction17
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Telecommunications16
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Philosophy and Theology11
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Sociology and Anthropology11
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Foreign Language9
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Geography9
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
History and Archeology9
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling8
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Biology7
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Medicine and Dentistry6
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Fine Arts4
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production3
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Arm-Hand Steadiness69
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Information Ordering66
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity66
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Control Precision63
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Reaction Time63
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Hearing Sensitivity60
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Auditory Attention56
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Finger Dexterity56
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Manual Dexterity56
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Oral Comprehension56
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Perceptual Speed56
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

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Visualization56
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Category Flexibility53
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Deductive Reasoning53
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Flexibility of Closure53
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Multilimb Coordination53
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Rate Control53
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Trunk Strength53
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Depth Perception50
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Inductive Reasoning50
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Number Facility50
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Oral Expression50
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Speech Clarity50
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition50
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Speed of Closure50
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Visual Color Discrimination50
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Written Comprehension50
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Far Vision47
The ability to see details at a distance.
Fluency of Ideas47
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Response Orientation47
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Static Strength47
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed47
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Written Expression47
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Mathematical Reasoning44
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Memorization44
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Originality44
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Time Sharing44
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Sound Localization41
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Extent Flexibility38
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Stamina35
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Dynamic Strength31
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Speed of Limb Movement31
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Gross Body Coordination28
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Peripheral Vision28
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Spatial Orientation28
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Gross Body Equilibrium25
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Glare Sensitivity19
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Night Vision19
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Explosive Strength13
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Dynamic Flexibility6
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Controlling Machines and Processes90
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials82
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings77
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events75
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates71
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Getting Information71
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Handling and Moving Objects71
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems71
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Working with Computers70
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards69
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work67
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment65
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

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Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People64
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Processing Information61
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Performing General Physical Activities58
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information57
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge57
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Analyzing Data or Information56
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment56
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Documenting/Recording Information55
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Training and Teaching Others55
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment54
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships52
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Coaching and Developing Others49
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates46
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment46
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others46
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Scheduling Work and Activities46
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Thinking Creatively46
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others45
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others43
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Developing Objectives and Strategies42
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Developing and Building Teams34
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others33
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Assisting and Caring for Others30
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources28
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization22
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Performing Administrative Activities21
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Selling or Influencing Others18
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Staffing Organizational Units13
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public10
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail86
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability77
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness59
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Achievement Orientation42
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Stress Tolerance35
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Adaptability27
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Self-Confidence27
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Integrity25
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Intellectual Curiosity25
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Perseverance22
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Control22
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Initiative20
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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Cooperation14
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Innovation10
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Sincerity2
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Humility0
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic91
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional73
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative31
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Enterprising6
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Artistic3
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Social0
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day99%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important81%
- Very important17%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually77%
- About half the time13%
Time Pressure
- Every day62%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day52%
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day63%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually65%
- About half the time21%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day53%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day60%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Never12%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others51%
- Contact with others most of the time16%
- Contact with others about half the time19%
- Occasional contact with others14%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom39%
- Some freedom38%
- Limited freedom15%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours50%
- 40 hours49%

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Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important45%
- Very important23%
- Important24%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important44%
- Very important34%
- Fairly important11%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results37%
- Important results24%
- Moderate results37%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day70%
- Never30%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important42%
- Very important17%
- Important18%
- Fairly important22%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom36%
- Some freedom17%
- Limited freedom26%
- No freedom15%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day48%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never21%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important39%
- Important29%
- Fairly important25%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious36%
- Very serious14%
- Serious20%
- Fairly serious13%
- Not serious at all17%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day42%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
- Never24%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually33%
- More than half the time17%
- Less than half the time32%
Degree of Automation
- Completely automated16%
- Highly automated28%
- Moderately automated35%
- Not at all automated11%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually35%
- About half the time12%
- Less than half the time41%
- Never11%
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)79%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)11%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Continually or almost continually24%
- About half the time12%
- Less than half the time56%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive23%
- Moderately competitive34%
- Slightly competitive19%
- Not at all competitive18%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day38%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never48%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a year or more but not every month41%
- Never21%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility12%
- High responsibility15%
- Moderate responsibility20%
- Limited responsibility28%
- No responsibility26%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day34%
- Never56%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility11%
- High responsibility22%
- Moderate responsibility12%
- Limited responsibility16%
- No responsibility39%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Every day28%
- Never58%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never28%
E-Mail
- Every day19%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Never60%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never49%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day15%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
- Never41%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never59%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Important21%
- Fairly important34%
- Not important at all41%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time34%
- Never49%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
- Never51%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Never68%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never74%
Spend Time Sitting
- About half the time11%
- Less than half the time30%
- Never56%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time46%
- Never52%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never79%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never92%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never83%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Never87%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never81%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)13%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)87%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never81%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never88%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Never83%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never94%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never93%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

High school diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary certificate
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, KCD cabinet design software, UGS Solid Edge
Video conferencing software
FaceTime
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
1CadCam Unigraphics, Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software, SigmaTEK SigmaNEST, Vero International VISI-Series
Industrial control software
EditCNC, Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software, Work inspection software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
ERP software, SAP software
Object or component oriented development software
G-code, M-code
Analytical or scientific software
CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator, Kentech Kipware Trig Kalculator
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
Development environment software
MUMPS M
Desktop communications software
Eko
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Project management software
Microsoft Project
Information retrieval or search software
Kentech PROTALK

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.
Install mechanical components in production equipment.
Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.
Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production.
Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
Replace worn equipment components.
Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment.

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Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
Maintain production or processing equipment.
Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.
Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.
Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.
Stack finished items for further processing or shipment.
Clean production equipment.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Load materials into production equipment.
Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Aircraft Metals Tech (Machinist/Cnc/Welder)
Numerical Control Machnist Oper
Stencil Cutter

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology