Details Report for:
51-4041.00 - Machinists

Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.

Sample of reported job titles: CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist), Gear Machinist, Machine Repair Person, Machinist, Maintenance Machinist, Manual Lathe Machinist, Production Machinist, Tool Room Machinist

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Tasks Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance	Category	Task
95	Core	Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
94	Core	Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
91	Core	Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
89	Core	Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
89	Core	Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.
87	Core	Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.
87	Core	Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
86	Core	Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.
85	Core	Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.
84	Core	Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
83	Core	Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.
83	Core	Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
82	Core	Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.
77	Core	Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.
77	Core	Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.
76	Core	Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.
76	Core	Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information.
76	Core	Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.
75	Core	Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal.
73	Core	Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
85	Supplemental	Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics.
78	Supplemental	Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.
76	Supplemental	Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed.
74	Supplemental	Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design.
74	Supplemental	Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment.
72	Supplemental	Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance.
72	Supplemental	Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines.
64	Supplemental	Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms.
64	Supplemental	Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.

Find occupations related to multiple tasks

Technology Skills Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Analytical or scientific software — Armchair Machinist software; CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator; Kentech Kipware Trig Kalculator
Computer aided design CAD software — Autodesk AutoCAD ; Dassault Systemes CATIA; PTC Creo Parametric; SolidCAM (see all 8 examples)
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software — Autodesk Fusion 360; CNC Mastercam; Dassault Systemes SolidWorks ; OneCNC CAD/CAM (see all 9 examples)
Electronic mail software — Microsoft Outlook
Enterprise resource planning ERP software — ERP software; JobBOSS; SAP
Industrial control software — EditCNC; Mazak Mazatrol SMART CNC
Office suite software — Microsoft Office
Presentation software — Microsoft PowerPoint
Procedure management software — Hexagon Metrology PC-DMIS
Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel
Word processing software — Microsoft Word

Hot Technology — a technology requirement frequently included in employer job postings.

Tools Used Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Adjustable angle plate — Angle plates
Adjustable wrenches
Angle cutter — Undercut tools
Anvils
Arbors — Grinding wheel arbors
Ball peen hammer — Ball peen hammers
Bench dog — Grinding dogs
Bench vises — Milling vises
Binocular light compound microscopes
Blow torch — Torches
Boring machines — Boring bars; Boring tools; Horizontal boring bars
Calipers — Dial calipers; Hermaphrodite calipers; Outside spring calipers; Vernier calipers (see all 6 examples)
Casting machines — Centrifugal spin casters
Center gauge — Edge finders
Chamfering machine — Chamfer tools
Chucks
Cold chisels — Square chisels
Column and knee milling machine — Knee mills
Combination pliers
Combination wrenches
Coordinate measuring machines CMM
Cylinder gauge — Ring gauges
Deburring tool — Deburring tools
Desktop computers
Dial indicator or dial gauge — Dial indicators
Double ended stud — Shims
Drill press or radial drill — Radial drill presses; Radial drills; Sensitive drill presses
Drilling machines — Center drills; Pillar drill machines
End cut pliers — Side cutting pliers
Facial shields — Full face shields
Feeler gauges — Angled feeler gauges
Flat hand file — Flat files
Forklifts
Gage block set — Marking blocks; Parallel blocks; V blocks
Gas welding or brazing or cutting apparatus — Oxyacetylene welding equipment
Grinders
Grinding machines — Crankshaft grinders; Valve grinding machines
Hacksaw — Hacksaws; Power hacksaws
Half round file — Half-round files
Hammers — Brass hammers; Composition hammers; Machinists' hammers
Hand clamps
Hand reamer — Reamers
Height gauges — Gauges; Planer gauges; Vernier height gauges
Hex keys — Hex wrenches
Honing machine — Resurfacing machines
Horizontal machining center — Horizontal mills
Horizontal turning center — Drum lathes; Engine lathes; Flywheel lathes; Turning lathes (see all 6 examples)
Hydraulic press frames — Hydraulic presses
Induction heating machine — Heat-treating equipment
Ladders
Laser printers
Levels — Spirit levels
Locking pliers — Channel lock pliers
Machine end mill — Milling angle form cutters
Magnetic tools — Magnetic retrievers
Manual press brake — Arbor presses; Brake presses
Metal band sawing machine — Bandsaws
Metal broaching machines — Broachers
Metal cutters — Aviation snips
Metal inert gas welding machine — Metal inert gas MIG welders
Micrometers — Inside micrometers; Outside micrometers
Mill saw file — Single-cut mill saw files
Milling machines — Computerized numerical control CNC machining centers
Multi-tasking or universal machining center — Multi-axis computerized numerical control CNC machines
Needlenose pliers
Personal computers
Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers — Personal digital assistants PDA
Pipe wrenches
Pitch measuring instruments — Screw pitch gauges
Planing machines — Planers
Plasma arc welding machine — Plasma welders
Platform lift — Platforms; Staging equipment
Pneumatic sanding machines — Sandblasters
Power buffers — Buffers
Power chippers — Chippers
Power drills — Combination drills
Power grinders — Cylindrical grinders
Power planes — Jointers
Power sanders
Power saws — Cold saws; Cutoff saws
Protractors — Vernier bevel protractors
Pry bars
Punches or nail sets or drifts — Prick punches; Punches
Putty knives
Radius gauge — Radius gauges
Ratchets — Ratchet sets
Rubber mallet — Rubber mallets
Rulers — Steel rules
Safety glasses — Welding lenses
Saws — Hand saws
Screwdrivers — Phillips head screwdrivers; Spindle blade screwdrivers
Scribers
Shaper cutter — Shapers
Sharpening stones or tools or kits — Cylinder honers; Sharpening equipment
Shears — Beverly shears; Metal shears
Shielded metal arc welding or stick welding machine — Shielded arc welding tools
Sine bar — Sine bars
Sledge hammer — Sledgehammers
Slings — Machine shop rigging equipment
Socket sets — Socket wrench sets
Spot welding machine — Handheld welders; Portable welding equipment
Squares — Machinists' squares
Surface gauge — Surface gauges
Surface grinding machine — Surface grinding machines
Swaging tools
Taps — Metal cutting taps
Telescoping gauge — Telescoping gauges
Thermal spray machine — Metal spray equipment
Thread counters or gauges — Thread gauges
Threading die hand tool — Pipe threaders
Threading machine — Threading machines
Tongs
Tracer or duplicating or contouring lathe — Breaker lathes; Lathes
Traveling column milling machine — 3-axis computerized numerical control CNC machines
Tube bending machine — Tube benders
Tungsten inert gas welding machine — Tungsten inert gas TIG welding equipment
Turret lathe — Turret lathes; Vertical turret lathes VTL
Utility knives
Vertical machining center — Vertical milling machines
Wave soldering machine — Soldering equipment
Wedges — Steel wedges
Welder torch — Brazing equipment
Welding masks — Welding shields
Workshop cranes

Knowledge Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Knowledge
62		Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
58		Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
57		Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
50		Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
43		Engineering and Technology — 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.
43		English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
35		Customer and Personal Service — 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.
34		Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
31		Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
30		Physics — 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.
28		Administration and Management — 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.
26		Administrative — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
21		Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
20		Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
17		Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
16		Chemistry — 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.
16		Public Safety and Security — 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.
12		Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
11		Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
9		Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
9		Sales and Marketing — 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.
8		Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
8		Foreign Language — 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.
8		Psychology — 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.
7		Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
7		Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
6		Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
6		Medicine and Dentistry — 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.
6		Philosophy and Theology — 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.
1		Geography — 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.
1		History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
1		Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
0		Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Skills Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Skill
56		Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
53		Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
53		Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53		Operations Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
50		Active Listening — 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.
50		Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
50		Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
50		Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
50		Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
50		Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
47		Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
47		Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
47		Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
47		Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
47		Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
47		Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
44		Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
44		Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
41		Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
38		Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
38		Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
38		Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
38		Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
38		Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
35		Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
31		Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
31		Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
28		Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
25		Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
25		Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
22		Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
19		Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
19		Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
16		Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
13		Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Abilities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Ability
66		Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
66		Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
66		Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
63		Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
56		Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
56		Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
56		Problem Sensitivity — 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.
56		Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53		Information Ordering — 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).
53		Multilimb Coordination — 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.
53		Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
53		Rate Control — 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.
53		Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
50		Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50		Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50		Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
50		Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
50		Perceptual Speed — 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.
50		Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
50		Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
50		Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
50		Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
47		Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
47		Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
44		Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
44		Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
44		Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
44		Trunk Strength — 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.
44		Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
44		Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
41		Depth Perception — 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.
41		Fluency of Ideas — 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).
41		Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
41		Originality — 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.
41		Response Orientation — 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.
41		Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
38		Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
35		Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
35		Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
31		Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
31		Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
31		Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
28		Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
25		Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
25		Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
25		Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
22		Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
22		Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
19		Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
16		Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
16		Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
13		Night Vision — The ability to see under low-light conditions.

Work Activities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Activity
92		Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
83		Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
81		Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
72		Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
72		Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
69		Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
67		Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
67		Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
66		Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
63		Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
63		Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
60		Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
60		Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
59		Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — 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.
59		Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
57		Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
57		Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
56		Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical 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.
53		Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
50		Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
49		Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
48		Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
48		Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
47		Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
47		Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
45		Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
44		Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
42		Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
42		Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
42		Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
41		Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
40		Providing Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
38		Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
36		Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
32		Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — 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.
26		Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
26		Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
24		Communicating with People Outside the Organization — 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.
23		Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
20		Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
10		Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Detailed Work Activities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
Operate cutting equipment.
Operate grinding equipment.
Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Maintain production or processing equipment.
Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.
Determine metal or plastic production methods.
Prepare fabrics or materials for processing or production.
Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
Conduct test runs of production equipment.
Exchange information with colleagues.
Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.
Install mechanical components in production equipment.
Design tools, fixtures, or other devices for production equipment.
Diagnose equipment malfunctions.
Dispose of trash or waste materials.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Measure materials to mark reference points, cutting lines, or other indicators.
Disassemble equipment for maintenance or repair.
Replace worn equipment components.
Sort recyclable materials.
Operate welding equipment.
Test materials, solutions, or samples.
Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
Create diagrams or blueprints for workpieces or products.
Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.
Assemble electromechanical or hydraulic systems.

Find occupations related to multiple detailed work activities

Work Context Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Work Context

Percentage of Top Responses

Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?

See more occupations related to this work context.


94	Every day

Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?


89	Continually or almost continually

Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?


61	Extremely important
39	Very important

Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?


78	Every day

Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?


62	Continually or almost continually
26	More than half the time
11	About half the time

Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)


69	Extremely important
20	Important

Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?


57	Every day
24	Once a week or more but not every day

Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?


38	A lot of freedom
42	Some freedom
18	Limited freedom

Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?


75	Every day
19	Never

Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?


46	Continually or almost continually
29	More than half the time
18	Less than half the time

Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?


62	Every day
20	Never

Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?


56	Every day
14	Once a week or more but not every day
13	Never

Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.


44	More than 40 hours
56	40 hours

Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?


31	Extremely important
40	Very important
21	Important

Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?


34	A lot of freedom
38	Some freedom
20	Limited freedom

Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?


27	Extremely important
39	Very important
21	Important

Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?


32	Constant contact with others
36	Contact with others most of the time
14	Contact with others about half the time
11	Occasional contact with others

Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?


54	Every day
13	Once a week or more but not every day
13	Once a year or more but not every month
18	Never

Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?


38	Very high responsibility
20	High responsibility
21	Moderate responsibility
18	Limited responsibility

Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?


23	Very important results
33	Important results
25	Moderate results
17	Minor results

Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?


41	Extremely important
17	Very important
23	Fairly important
12	Not important at all

Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?


19	Very close (near touching)
26	Moderately close (at arm's length)
25	Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
22	I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)

Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?


21	Very high responsibility
37	High responsibility
23	Limited responsibility
14	No responsibility

Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?


26	Continually or almost continually
23	More than half the time
13	About half the time
31	Less than half the time

Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?


43	Every day
14	Once a year or more but not every month
32	Never

Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?


27	Every day
24	Once a week or more but not every day
16	Once a month or more but not every week
27	Never

Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?


15	Extremely competitive
24	Highly competitive
36	Moderately competitive
17	Not at all competitive

Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?


23	Extremely serious
24	Very serious
25	Fairly serious
21	Not serious at all

Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?


24	Highly automated
49	Moderately automated
12	Not at all automated

Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?


21	Continually or almost continually
14	About half the time
49	Less than half the time

Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?


27	Extremely important
16	Important
14	Fairly important
39	Not important at all

Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?


17	Every day
22	Once a week or more but not every day
14	Once a year or more but not every month
46	Never

Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?


11	Every day
25	Once a week or more but not every day
52	Never

Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?


14	Once a week or more but not every day
13	Once a month or more but not every week
25	Once a year or more but not every month
40	Never

Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?


12	Every day
13	Once a month or more but not every week
23	Once a year or more but not every month
45	Never

Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?


18	Every day
18	Once a year or more but not every month
56	Never

Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?


17	Once a month or more but not every week
12	Once a year or more but not every month
60	Never

Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?


18	About half the time
52	Less than half the time
30	Never

Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?


13	Every day
72	Never

Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?


72	Never

In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?


15	Once a week or more but not every day
69	Never

Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?


28	Once a month or more but not every week
15	Once a year or more but not every month
57	Never

Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?


20	Once a month or more but not every week
13	Once a year or more but not every month
62	Never

Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?


32	Less than half the time
59	Never

Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?


84	Never

Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?


16	Less than half the time
74	Never

Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?


83	Never

Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?


13	Once a month or more but not every week
14	Once a year or more but not every month
72	Never

Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?


16	Once a year or more but not every month
75	Never

Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?


83	Never

Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?


16	Once a year or more but not every month
78	Never

In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?


88	Never

Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?


87	Never

Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?


23	Less than half the time
77	Never

Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?


95	Regular (established routine, set schedule)

Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?


95	Never

Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?


99	Never

Job Zone Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Title	Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education	Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Related Experience	Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training	Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples	These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, travel guides, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters, and medical assistants.
SVP Range	(6.0 to < 7.0)

Education

Percentage of Respondents	Education Level Required
36	High school diploma or equivalent
33	Post-secondary certificate
17	Some college, no degree

Credentials

Interests Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Occupational Interest		Interest
100		Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
72		Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
61		Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
17		Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
6		Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
0		Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Work Styles Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Style
89		Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
83		Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
79		Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
75		Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
72		Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
71		Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
70		Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
70		Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
69		Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
68		Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
67		Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
65		Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
65		Self-Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
58		Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
46		Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
45		Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.

Work Values Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Extent		Work Value
72		Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
39		Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
39		Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
28		Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
28		Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
17		Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

Related Occupations Save Table (XLS/CSV)

51-4032.00	Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
51-4033.00	Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
51-4035.00	Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
51-4061.00	Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
51-4062.00	Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
51-4111.00	Tool and Die Makers
51-7011.00	Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
51-9161.00	Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
51-9162.00	Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
51-9195.04	Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, and Finishers Bright Outlook

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages (2020)	$22.04 hourly, $45,840 annual
State wages
Local wages	ZIP Code:

Employment (2020)	363,000 employees
Projected growth (2020-2030)	Average (5% to 10%)
Projected job openings (2020-2030)	41,200
State trends

Top industries (2020)	Manufacturing (81% employed in this sector) (see all industries)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020 wage data and 2020-2030 employment projections . "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2020-2030). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

Sources of Additional Information

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.