How to Become a Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in India
Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
- Entry salary
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- Mid-career
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- Senior
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- Outlook
- stable
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About the Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic role
Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
What's your education level?
Years of relevant experience?
Do you have any of these key skills?
Skills required
- Precision Measurement (Micrometers, Vernier Calipers)
- Quality Control and Inspection
- CNC Programming and G-Code Knowledge
- Machine Setup and Tooling Selection
- Blueprint and Technical Drawing Interpretation
- Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Attention to Detail and Manual Dexterity
- Industrial Safety and PPE Compliance
- Knowledge of Metal and Plastic Material Properties
- Mathematical Calculation for Feed and Speed Rates
How to enter this career
- 01
Completion of a 10th standard education followed by an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate in Turner or Machinist trade.
- 02
Apprenticeship training under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) in a manufacturing unit.
- 03
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from a recognized polytechnic for those seeking advanced operator or supervisory roles.
A day in the life
- 8:00 AM - Reviewing technical blueprints and work orders for the day's production batch.
- 10:30 AM - Setting up the lathe machine by mounting workpieces and adjusting cutting tools.
- 1:00 PM - Monitoring machine operations to ensure precision and making manual adjustments.
- 3:30 PM - Inspecting finished metal or plastic components using micrometers and calipers.
- 5:30 PM - Performing routine machine maintenance and cleaning the workspace for the next shift.
Salary insights
A Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in India typically earns Varies. Compensation varies by city, employer and experience.
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