Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
SOC Code: 51-4034
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances. This career typically requires moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year). With an AI-proof score of 84.4/100, this role has high resilience to automation. Key skills include Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control, Quality Control Analysis.
AI-Proof Score: 84.4 — Very High
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Median Salary
$48,620
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Job Growth
-13.6%
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Training Time
Moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year)
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Job Zone
Zone 2 / 5
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Training Cost
~$5,000
Key Skills
- •Operations Monitoring
- •Operation and Control
- •Quality Control Analysis
- •Reading Comprehension
- •Active Listening
- •Monitoring
- •Equipment Maintenance
Common Tasks
- ✓Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
- ✓Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
- ✓Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
- ✓Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
- ✓Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
Training & Resources
Why AI-Proof?
- ✅Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
- ✅Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
- ✅Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
- ✅Social and regulatory barriers to full automation