Operator | Kirkwood Community College

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 51-9161.00

Skills

Operation and ControlOperations MonitoringCritical ThinkingMonitoringQuality Control AnalysisComplex Problem SolvingTroubleshootingActive Listening

Knowledge

MathematicsProduction and ProcessingMechanicalEnglish LanguageEngineering and Technology

Abilities

Arm-Hand SteadinessNear VisionProblem SensitivityInformation OrderingControl PrecisionReaction TimeHearing SensitivityOral ComprehensionPerceptual SpeedVisualization

Tasks

Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision m
Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions o
Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using ha

Technology

Computer aided manufacturing CAM softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareIndustrial control softwareDesktop communications software

Tools

0-1 drop indicators2/3 axis computer numerically controlled CNC milling machines5 axis lathes8 axis lathesAutomatic measuring equipmentBench grindersBore gaugesBore millsBorersBoring barsBuffersComparatorsComputer numerical control CNC edge bandersComputer numerical control CNC routersComputer numerical control CNC vertical lathes

Work Values

SupportIndependenceWorking ConditionsRelationshipsAchievementRecognition

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: medium51-9161.00	Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators	title_inference	$49,970 median$71,160 top	-10.73%	-1,900

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: developing (Level 2)(based on Certificate)

Precision calipers, micrometers, and gauges — independently measure finished workpiece dimensions and compare results against blueprint tolerances on routine production runs.
CNC machines and robotic equipment — set up and operate with limited oversight to perform multiple machining functions on standard metal and plastic workpieces.
Tooling, attachments, and alignment fixtures — install, align, and secure using hand tools and measuring instruments with minimal supervisor direction.
Machining sequences and numerical control specifications — review program blueprints and configure machine operations for familiar part families without step-by-step guidance.
Machining sequences and workpiece placement — adjust setup and change tooling independently when transitioning between standard jobs in a production cell.
Auditory monitoring skills — detect irregular machine sounds during operation and make compensating adjustments to speed, feed, or tooling on familiar jobs.
CNC program parameters — implement approved modifications and enter updated specifications into the machine computer based on in-process inspection results.
Speed and feed calculations — compute machine ratios and determine cut size and position for standard materials using established formulas and reference data.
CAM and industrial control software — load, verify, and execute machining programs for routine part runs with reduced supervisor review.
Quality control records and production logs — document inspection results and machine settings accurately using spreadsheet software in a shop environment.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.