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How exposed to AI is a Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operator?

Of the 27 tasks O*NET lists for computer numerically controlled tool operators, 0 could be done in half the time with a chat window today. 17 cannot be sped up at all. Here is which.

Exposure means published research judged an AI could halve the time a task takes, at the same quality. It does not mean the task stops needing a person. How to read this

Also called
CNC Gear Operator (Computer Numerical Control Gear Operator)CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator)CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator)CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator)CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)CNC Set Up Operator (Computer Numerical Control Set Up Operator)Machine OperatorMachine Set Up Operator
Reachable today Needs software built first Cannot be sped up
27
tasks rated for this occupation
3%
hold a degree, from a survey of 38
158k
people do this job in the US
6 of 107
least protected in production

Every task, and what AI can do with it

These are O*NET's task statements for this occupation, exactly as written, sorted into the three bands by the ratings behind this report. Nothing has been reworded.

Only with software built on top

10
  • Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
  • Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces
  • Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation
  • Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences
  • 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
  • Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers
  • Set up future jobs while machines are operating
  • Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels
  • Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools

Cannot be sped up

17
  • 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
  • Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation
  • 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
  • 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
  • Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags
  • Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot
  • Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes
What this does not say

This is not a prediction about your job

Nobody surveyed an employer. Tasks are counted equally, so a percentage here is a share of the list rather than a share of your week. And the ratings were made in 2023, which makes every figure a floor rather than a ceiling.

It must never be used to select anyone for redundancy. The full limits are here.

Where to go next

This is the standard task list for the title. The useful next question is which of the tasks you actually do should go near AI, and which should not.

Sort your own tasks Read the full report

Exposure ratings from Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin and Rock, GPTs are GPTs: Labor market impact potential of LLMs, Science 384, 1306–1308, 2024, used under the MIT licence. This page includes information from the O*NET Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. People Team AI has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. Employment figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.