• Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
• Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensionally or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
• Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.
• Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.

Typical day

On a daily basis, CNC Drilling Operators verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges. They lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.

A typical day for a Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setter, Operator and Tender, Metal and Plastic will also include:

• Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensionally or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
• Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.
• Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
• Install tools in spindles.
• Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over-hole locations.

Other responsibilities

Besides their typical day, CNC Drilling Operators also sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders. They may also operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.

On a weekly to monthly basis, CNC Drilling Operators verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles. They might also layout reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

In addition, they perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.

Although specific duties may vary, many of them operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.

To some CNC Drilling Operators, it is also their responsibility to position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.