Skip to content

O*NET-SOC 51-9161.00

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

From O*NET 30.3

Tasks

From O*NET 30.3, by importance, as O*NET OnLine lists them

Free · O*NET 30.3
  1. Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.Core11932
  2. Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.Core11944
  3. Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.Core11934
  4. Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.Core11946
  5. Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.Core11937
  6. 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.Core11935
  7. Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.Core11955
  8. Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.Core11940
  9. Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.Core11953
  10. Remove and replace dull cutting tools.Core11933
  11. Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.Core11942
  12. Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.Core11936
  13. Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions.Core11947
  14. Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools.Core11949
  15. Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.Core11941
  16. Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.Core11939
  17. Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.Core11956
  18. Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.Core11938
  19. Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.Supplemental11952
  20. Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels.Core11943
  21. Set up future jobs while machines are operating.Core11954
  22. Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production.Core11945
  23. Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems.Core11950
  24. Control coolant systems.Core11948
  25. Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.Core11951
  26. Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot.Supplemental11958
  27. Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes.Supplemental11957

Technology Skills

From O*NET 30.3, 58 examples in 16 categories, 9 Hot Technology

Free · O*NET 30.3

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

  • 1CadCam Unigraphics
  • BobCAD-CAM
  • Cadem CAPSMill
  • Cadem CAPSTurn
  • Cadem NCnet
  • Cadem seeNC Mill
  • CGTech Vericut CNC
  • CNC Mastercam
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA
  • Delcam PowerMILL
  • Direct motion computer numerically controlled CNC software
  • DP Technology ESPRIT
  • ExtraTech Machine Tools Suite
  • EZ-CAM
  • FlashCut CNC
  • HOMAG WoodWOP
  • IMSI TurboCAD
  • JETCAM
  • Kentech Kipware M CNC
  • Kentech Kipware T CNC
  • Kentech Kipware X CNC
  • Kentech machine shop software
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software
  • MDSI OpenCNC
  • PartMaker SwissCAM
  • Predator DNC
  • PTC Creo Parametric
  • SigmaTEK SigmaNEST
  • SmartCAMcnc SmartCAM
  • TekSoft CAMWorks
  • Vero International VISI-Series
  • Vero Software Edgecam
  • Vero Software SURFCAM
  • Virtual Gibbs CADD/CAM

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCADHot Technology
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorksHot Technology
  • KCD cabinet design software
  • Kentech Kipware Studio
  • UGS Solid Edge

Analytical or scientific software

  • CNC Consulting Machinists' Calculator
  • Kentech Kipware Trig Kalculator

Industrial control software

  • EditCNC
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
  • Work inspection software

Desktop communications software

  • Eko

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • ERP software
  • SAP softwareHot Technology

Video conferencing software

  • FaceTime

Object or component oriented development software

  • G-codeIn Demand
  • M-code

Information retrieval or search software

  • Kentech PROTALK

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft ExcelHot Technology

Office suite software

  • Microsoft Office softwareHot Technology

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft OutlookHot Technology

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPointHot Technology

Project management software

  • Microsoft ProjectHot Technology

Word processing software

  • Microsoft WordHot Technology

Development environment software

  • MUMPS M

Detailed Work Activities

From O*NET 30.3, under their work activities; open one for the AI skills Workforce Automation maps to it

Free · O*NET 30.3

Getting Information

  • Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

  • Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

  • Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information

  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Making Decisions and Solving Problems

  • Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Performing General Physical Activities

  • Clean production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Load materials into production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Stack finished items for further processing or shipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Handling and Moving Objects

  • Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Install mechanical components in production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Controlling Machines and Processes

  • Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Working with Computers

  • Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Program equipment to perform production tasks.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment

  • Replace worn equipment components.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment

  • Maintain production or processing equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others

  • Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Job Zone

From O*NET 30.3

Free · O*NET 30.3

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed

Workforce Automation analysis, not part of the source

WFA coverage: AI skills for this job

WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

Pilot mapping: these skill links come from our seed list and haven’t been reviewed yet. Expect them to change as each one is checked.

DWAs covered by an AI skill0 of 25
Distinct tools0
Level mix
  • No tools yet

Equivalents

NICE work roles, with their DCWF equivalents

Mapped to this job by the ETO-CSET NICE/O*NET crosswalk (2024); roles from NICE Framework Components v2.2.0, DCWF equivalents from DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)

Free · NICE Framework Components v2.2.0 and DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)

No NICE work role maps to this job.