A professional who sets up and operates numerically controlled drill press that automatically performs machining operations such as drilling, reaming, countersinking, spot-facing, and tapping of holes in metal workpieces, according to specifications, setup instructions, and knowledge of machining. Respnsibilities include:

• Studies blueprints or setup instructions to determine dimensional specifications, setup requirements, and work procedure.
• Installs workpiece holders, such as blocks, risers, and clamps, on indexing table of machine, using machinist handtools.
• Lifts workpiece manually or with hoist and positions and secures it on machine table or in holding fixture with clamps and bolts.
• Installs cutting tools in tool magazine, turret, or spindle of machine.
• Inserts programmed tape or punched card in tape or card reader of control unit.
• Actuates machine that automatically positions indexing table containing workpiece under spindle, selects tool, and machines part according to programmed instructions.
• Stops machine after trial run and inspects machined workpiece to ensure conformance to blueprint specifications, using fixed gauges, dial indicators, micrometers, and calipers.
• Monitors machine operation and display panel of control unit for indications of malfunction.
• Notifies supervisor if machined workpiece does not conform to specifications or if machine malfunctions.
• May make manual adjustments, such as aligning workpiece on machine table, changing cutting tools, or setting cutting speed, feed rates, and depth of cut.
• May occasionally operate machine in semiautomatic mode by setting selector switch and manually dialing in data according to oral or written instructions to machine relatively simple pieces.