# Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators > Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment. - Code: 51-9161.00 (O*NET-SOC; SOC 2018 51-9161) - Family: [Production](https://foundation.org.ai/occupations#family-51), one of its 114 occupations - Tasks: 27 tasks (24 core and 3 supplemental) - Page: https://foundation.org.ai/occupations/51-9161.00 - JSON: https://foundation.org.ai/data/tasks/51-9161.00.json ## What the work is made of 1. Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures. Core task · Task 11932 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 2. Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces. Core task · Task 11944 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 3. Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments. Core task · Task 11934 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 4. Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences. Core task · Task 11946 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 5. Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences. Core task · Task 11937 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 6. 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. Core task · Task 11935 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 7. Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers. Core task · Task 11955 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 8. Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts. Core task · Task 11940 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 9. Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links. Core task · Task 11953 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 10. Remove and replace dull cutting tools. Core task · Task 11933 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 11. Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation. Core task · Task 11942 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 12. Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction. Core task · Task 11936 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 13. Monitor machine operation and control panel displays, and compare readings to specifications to detect malfunctions. Core task · Task 11947 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 14. Maintain machines and remove and replace broken or worn machine tools, using hand tools. Core task · Task 11949 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 15. Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation. Core task · Task 11941 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 16. Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs. Core task · Task 11939 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 17. Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools. Core task · Task 11956 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 18. Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes. Core task · Task 11938 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 19. Input initial part dimensions into machine control panels. Core task · Task 11943 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 20. Set up future jobs while machines are operating. Core task · Task 11954 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 21. Confer with supervisors or programmers to resolve machine malfunctions or production errors or to obtain approval to continue production. Core task · Task 11945 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 22. Stack or load finished items, or place items on conveyor systems. Core task · Task 11950 · Rated by 100 people who do the job, August 2023 23. Control coolant systems. Core task · Task 11948 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 24. Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags. Core task · Task 11951 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 25. Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions. Supplemental task · Task 11952 · Rated by 101 people who do the job, August 2023 26. Lay out and mark areas of parts to be shot peened and fill hoppers with shot. Supplemental task · Task 11958 · Rated by 99 people who do the job, August 2023 27. Examine electronic components for defects or completeness of laser-beam trimming, using microscopes. 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