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

Role Overview

What Is a Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender?

A Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender is a skilled manufacturing professional who sets up, operates, or tends machines that drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces. These workers are essential in precision manufacturing environments, where they transform raw materials into components used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and industrial equipment. Their work ensures that parts meet exact specifications for size, shape, and finish.

The role combines technical knowledge with hands-on mechanical work. Setters prepare the machine for production by installing tooling, adjusting speeds and feeds, and verifying alignment. Operators run the machinery during production runs, monitoring output for quality. Tenders assist by loading materials, removing finished parts, and performing basic maintenance. Together, these tasks keep manufacturing lines efficient and accurate.

What Does a Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender Do?

Daily responsibilities vary by workplace and machine type, but core tasks remain consistent. Workers must interpret blueprints, set up machines, and monitor operations to ensure precision.

• Study blueprints, work orders, or sample parts to determine dimensions, tolerances, and machine setup requirements.
• Select and install drill bits, boring tools, reamers, or other cutting tools into machine spindles or chucks.
• Adjust machine settings such as speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and coolant flow based on material type and part specifications.
• Load work pieces into machine fixtures, clamps, or vises, ensuring they are secured and aligned.
• Start machines and observe operation to detect malfunctions or deviations from specifications.
• Measure finished parts using micrometers, calipers, gauges, or coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to verify accuracy.
• Replace worn or broken tools, and perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating machine components.
• Document production data, including quantities produced, inspection results, and machine downtime.

Work Environment

Drilling and boring machine setters, operators, and tenders typically work in manufacturing facilities, machine shops, or industrial plants. These environments are often noisy due to machinery operation, and workers may be exposed to coolants, metal shavings, and dust. Proper personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots, is standard.

Work schedules can include full-time hours, with shifts covering evenings, nights, and weekends depending on production demands. Overtime is common during peak periods. The work is physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods, lifting heavy materials, and performing repetitive motions. Attention to detail and focus are critical to avoid errors and maintain safety.

How to Become a Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender

Most workers enter this occupation with a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often provide on-the-job training, where new hires learn machine setup, operation, and safety procedures under experienced workers. Some positions prefer or require completion of a vocational program or apprenticeship in machine tool technology or precision machining.

Key skills include mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and the ability to read blueprints and use precision measuring tools. Basic math skills are necessary for calculating dimensions and tolerances. While certification is not mandatory, credentials such as the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certifications can improve job prospects. Continuing education is valuable as machines and materials evolve.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to current data, the median annual salary for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders is $46,630. This figure represents the midpoint, meaning half of workers earn more and half earn less. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers in specialized industries can earn higher wages.

Employment in this occupation stands at 5,310 workers nationwide. However, the job growth projection is -19.60%, indicating a significant decline in demand over the coming years. This contraction is driven by automation, advanced manufacturing technologies, and the offshoring of some production. As a result, annual openings are projected at zero, meaning few new positions are expected to be created. Workers in this field may need to adapt by gaining skills in CNC programming, robotics, or maintenance to remain competitive.

Related Occupations

Several careers share similar skills or work environments. These roles offer natural progression or lateral moves for drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders.

• Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machine Tool Programmers: Program and set up CNC machines to perform precision cutting operations.
• Machinists: Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision metal and plastic parts.
• Tool and Die Makers: Construct and repair dies, molds, and tools used in manufacturing.
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics: Repair and maintain industrial machinery, including drilling and boring equipment.
• Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers: Examine parts for quality and conformance to specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about this career.

• What is the difference between a setter and an operator? A setter focuses on preparing the machine for production, including tool installation and calibration. An operator runs the machine during production and monitors output, while a tender assists with loading and unloading materials.
• Is this job dangerous? Like many manufacturing roles, there are risks from moving parts, sharp tools, and flying debris. Following safety protocols and using personal protective equipment significantly reduces hazards.
• Can I advance without a college degree? Yes, advancement often comes through experience and additional training. Many workers move into CNC programming, supervisory roles, or specialized machining with on-the-job learning and certifications.
• What industries employ the most workers? Top industries include machine shops, fabricated metal product manufacturing, transportation equipment manufacturing, and plastics product manufacturing.
• How has automation affected this role? Automation has reduced demand for manual machine operation. Workers who learn to program, set up, and maintain automated systems have better job prospects.