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Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Description
Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
Common Tasks
- Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
- Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
- 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.
- Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
Required Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Wages
In 2016 the mean hourly wage in the Greater Sacramento area was $21.32 . The hourly rate for this occupation typically paid between $14.10 and $30.94 .
In 2016 the mean annual salary in the Greater Sacramento area was $44,351.45 . The annual salary for this occupation typically paid between $29,326.06 and $64,358.09 .
Occupation Outlook
This occupation employed 5,000 people in California during 2014.
By 2024, there is expected to be a decrease of 14.0% in the number of jobs in California for this occupation, bringing the total number to 4,300.
By 2024, in California, the median hourly rate for this occupation is expected to be $17.00 with the median annual salary reaching $35,787.
