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How exposed to AI is a Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?

Of the 21 tasks O*NET lists for multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic, 2 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
Cell TechnicianCNC Machine Setter (Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Setter)Fabrication Set-Up PersonInjection Molding TechnicianMachine OperatorMachine TechnicianMold SetterProduction OperatorShear OperatorTooling Set-Up Person
Reachable today Needs software built first Cannot be sped up
21
tasks rated for this occupation
0%
hold a degree, from a survey of only 19
135k
people do this job in the US
30 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.

Reachable with a chat window today

2
  • Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics
  • Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds

Only with software built on top

2
  • Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow
  • Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials

Cannot be sped up

17
  • Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments
  • Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists
  • Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences
  • Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools
  • Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary
  • Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces
  • Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools
  • Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates
  • Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools
  • Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs
  • Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required
  • Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms
  • Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles
  • Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation
  • Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars
  • Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules
  • Align layout marks with dies or blades
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.