Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces. Using blueprints and technical drawings, setters, operators and tenders measure and prepare materials by drilling or punching them. They must set up their machine to operate at the appropriate cutting speed and depth. When drilling and boring operators complete a part, they carefully inspect the part for quality and conformity to the project standards. They are also responsible for maintenance their machine by replacing and installing new parts. To become a drilling and boring tool setter, operator, or tender requires at least a high school diploma and a few months to one year of on-the-job training. Some employers may require the completion of certificates or on-the-job training. Drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders earn approximately $18.28 an hour.