CNC Setup & Operate

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
• Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
• Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
• Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.
• Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
• Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
• 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.
• Remove and replace dull cutting tools.
• Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.
• Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.
• Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.
• Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
• Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.
• Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
• Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.
• Control coolant systems.
• Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.
• Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.
• Set up future jobs while machines are operating.
• Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.
• Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
• Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
• Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
• Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
• Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
• Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
• Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
• Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
• Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
• Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
• Move valves to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds.

OTHER EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• PREFER 2+ YEARS OF CNC SETUP AND OPERATE EXPERIENCE