Machine Tool Operator (General-Purpose Metal Working Machines)
こうさくきかいこう（はんようきんぞくこうさくきかい）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation that machines metal materials using general-purpose lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and other general-purpose machine tools to form parts.
Description
Machine Tool Operators (General-Purpose Metal Working Machines) operate general-purpose machines such as lathes, milling machines, and drill presses to cut, drill holes, and face-mill metal materials to achieve the specified shapes and dimensions according to drawings. They read drawings, select tools and cutting tools, perform setup, and set cutting conditions (rotation speed, feed rate, depth of cut). After machining, they measure dimensions using calipers or micrometers and confirm quality. In manufacturing sites, a wide range of tasks are required, including multi-variety small-lot production, setup changes, and equipment maintenance in response to production plans.
Future Outlook
Although the demand for general-purpose machine tool operators is on a decreasing trend amid the progress of automation and CNC-ization in manufacturing, the importance of personnel with advanced setup skills and complex machining abilities will continue in the future.
Personality Traits
High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Skilled Worker (Entry Level) → Veteran Machine Tool Operator → Grinding Machine Operator / NC Machine Tool Operator → Production Engineer → Process Manager
Required Skills
Dimensional Measurement / Drawing Reading / Drill Press Operation / Lathe Operation / Milling Machine Operation / Setup
Recommended Skills
CAD/CAM Operation / Cutting Tool Knowledge / Machine Tool Maintenance Technology / QC Methods
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because it is necessary to minimize dimensional errors in precision machining |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mathematical thinking is required for calculating cutting conditions and managing tolerances |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it follows existing machining procedures, there is little generation of new ideas |
Related Qualifications
- Machining Skills Certification (Lathe)
- Machining Skills Certification (Milling Machine)
Aliases
- Lathe Operator
- Machining Center Operator
- Milling Machine Operator
Related Jobs
- Die Maker
- Machining Engineer
- NC Machine Tool Operator
- Welder