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How a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic can use AI, task by task

O*NET 51-4032.00: Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic17 tasksJob Zone 2: Some preparation

Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Bore Mill Operator, CNC Drilling Operator (Computer Numerical Control Drilling Operator), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), Drill Operator, Drill Press Operator, Drill Setup Operator, Machine Operator, Punch Operator, Radial Drill Operator, Setup Mill Operator.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 0%AI-assist 8%Stays human 92%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 0 AI-ready, 1 AI-assist and 16 human-led tasks out of 17. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

🗓 Start here on Monday

The most frequent, most important tasks where AI can help right away.

  1. Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.Read & digest · Several times a day

💪 Lean into these

Core tasks that stay human. These skills get more valuable as the routine work gets automated.

  1. Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.Hands-on work · Several times a day
  2. Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.Hands-on work · Several times a day
  3. Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.Hands-on work · Several times a day

Skills to build & where you could move ↓

AI can draft these 0

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

None of this job's tasks are here.

AI can help you prep these 1

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.

Several times a day

AI gives you a first-pass summary; you still read the key parts.

Show prompt & steps

AI can pull out the key points and questions to look for. Use it as a first pass, then look closely yourself.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Work order or spec: [paste or type the order, part numbers, drawing notes]
What I'm making: [product or job]

List the materials, parts, quantities and specifications this order calls for, as a checklist. Flag tolerances, unclear items, and anything I should confirm with the supervisor before starting.

10-minute exercise: Pull materials from a work order

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you study machining instructions, job orders and blueprints.
Step 2Type it into [Work order or spec] and say what it's for in [What I'm making].
Step 3Tick the checklist against the actual order and drawing. Ask about every unclear item before cutting or ordering.

Remove names and private details before pasting, and check your employer's rules on what you can share with AI tools.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.. Also involves: Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.; Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements..

These stay human 16

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Using hands on tools and objects: more than half the time · Face-to-face discussions: once a week or more but not every day · Contact with others: contact with others most of the time · Around hazardous equipment: once a week or more but not every day

Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Part: [describe]
Tolerances: [from drawing]
Instruments: [micrometer, gauges]

Make an inspection plan and record sheet. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Dimensional inspection

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you verify conformance of machined work.
Step 2Fill in [Part], [Tolerances] and [Instruments] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use the record sheet on the next part.

Importance 4.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications..

Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Material: [panel, enclosure, part]
Openings: [sizes, positions]

List layout, bit selection and deburring. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Drilling for fixtures

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you move machine controls.
Step 2Fill in [Material] and [Openings] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials..

Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Equipment: [press, extruder]
Part: [die, wear part]

List removal, replacement and test steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Die or wear part replacement

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you change worn cutting tools.
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Part] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run first parts and measure before production.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Replace worn equipment components..

Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Machine: [saw, press, cutter]
Specs: [speeds, angles]

List settings and checks. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Cutting set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you select and set cutting speeds.
Step 2Fill in [Machine] and [Specs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications..

Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Workpiece: [panel, plate, floor, block]
Reference: [template, drawing, master pattern]

List the marking sequence, datum points, tools, and how to transfer marks accurately without stacking errors.

10-minute exercise: Mark out from the pattern

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish zero reference points.
Step 2Fill in [Workpiece] and [Reference] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Measure back from the datum to two marks before any cutting or drilling.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references..

Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.

Several times a day

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Line or machine: [describe]
Common problems: [jams, spills, leaks, plugging]

Make a one-page sheet: what each problem looks or sounds like early, what to do first, and when to stop the line. Add a shift log.

10-minute exercise: Malfunction spotting sheet

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you observe drilling or boring machine operations.
Step 2Fill in [Line or machine] and list [Common problems] you've seen.
Step 3Post the sheet at your station and update it after each incident.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions..

Turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to turn valves and direct flow of coolants or cutting oil over cutting areas.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Equipment: [mill, cooker]
Targets: [flow, levels]

List adjustment steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Coolant and lube settings

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you turn valves (today).
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Targets] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow..

Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Workpiece: [frame, part, panel]
Fixture: [clamps, jigs]

List mounting and alignment steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Workpiece set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you position and secure workpieces (today).
Step 2Fill in [Workpiece] and [Fixture] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the piece is secure before starting.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment..

Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Assembly: [subassembly, system]
Fixtures and gauges: [describe]

List alignment steps and measurements. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Fit-up checks

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel (today).
Step 2Fill in [Assembly] and [Fixtures and gauges] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly..

Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Load: [patient, part, material]
Equipment: [hoist, crane, stretcher]

List lift steps, communication and safety. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Lifting plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you lift workpieces (today).
Step 2Fill in [Load] and [Equipment] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check equipment capacity and use enough people.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.. Also involves: Signal others to coordinate work activities..

Install tools in spindles.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to install tools in spindles.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Equipment: [machine]
Tooling: [jigs, blades, dies]

List changeover steps, settings and first-off checks. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Tooling changeover

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you install tools (today).
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Tooling] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment..

Perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to perform minor assembly, such as fastening parts with nuts, bolts, or screws, using power tools or hand tools.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Assembly: [aircraft, product]
Parts: [list]

List fit-up, fastening and inspection. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Subassembly build

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform minor assembly (today).
Step 2Fill in [Assembly] and [Parts] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Assemble metal or plastic parts or products..

Operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses to bore holes so that machining operations can be performed on metal or plastic workpieces.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Material: [panel, enclosure, part]
Openings: [sizes, positions]

List layout, bit selection and deburring. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Drilling for fixtures

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you operate single- or multiple-spindle drill presses (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Material] and [Openings] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials..

Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Workpiece: [panel, plate, floor, block]
Reference: [template, drawing, master pattern]

List the marking sequence, datum points, tools, and how to transfer marks accurately without stacking errors.

10-minute exercise: Mark out from the pattern

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you lay out reference lines and machining locations (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Workpiece] and [Reference] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Measure back from the datum to two marks before any cutting or drilling.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references..

Sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to sharpen cutting tools, using bench grinders.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Tools: [blades, saws, picks]
Equipment: [grinder, stones]

List sharpening steps and angles. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Sharpening routine

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you sharpen cutting tools (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Tools] and [Equipment] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Keep the wheel guard on and avoid overheating the edge.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Sharpen cutting or grinding tools.. Also involves: Operate grinding equipment..

Operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.

A few times a year

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a drilling / boring machine tool setter / operator / tender / metal / plastic. Part of my job is to operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.

Context: The work draws on mechanical, production and processing and mathematics.
Workpiece: [panel, plate, floor, block]
Reference: [template, drawing, master pattern]

List the marking sequence, datum points, tools, and how to transfer marks accurately without stacking errors.

10-minute exercise: Mark out from the pattern

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you operate tracing attachments.
Step 2Fill in [Workpiece] and [Reference] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Measure back from the datum to two marks before any cutting or drilling.

Importance 2.8/5 · O*NET work activity: Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Operations Monitoringimportance 3.6/5
    Used in: Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
  • Critical Thinkingimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
  • Complex Problem Solvingimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
  • Quality Control Analysisimportance 2.9/5
    Used in: Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 3.1/5
    Used in: Getting Information
  • Active Listeningimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Getting Information

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

Getting into this job

High school diploma is most common (57% of workers)

  • High school or less 67%
  • Certificate or some college 14%
  • Associate's 12%
  • Bachelor's 7%
  • On-the-job training: 6–12 months
  • Related experience: 1–2 years

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

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