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.

Mount attachments, such as relieving or tracing attachments, to perform operations such as duplicating contours of templates or trimming workpieces. Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines. Adjust machine controls and change tool settings in order to keep dimensions within specified tolerances. Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances. Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators. Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments. Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools. Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces. Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces. Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments. Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics. Start lath or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met. Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences. Turn valve handles to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds. Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.

Production and Processing -- Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. Mathematics -- Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. Mechanical -- Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. Engineering and Technology -- Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Equipment Selection -- Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Installation -- Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Operation and Control -- Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Mathematics -- Using mathematics to solve problems.

Visualization -- The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged. Information Ordering -- The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). Written Comprehension -- The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Control Precision -- The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions. Static Strength -- The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Manual Dexterity -- The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects. Mathematical Reasoning -- The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.

Controlling Machines and Processes -- Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles). Handling and Moving Objects -- Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things. Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings -- Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards -- Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. Performing General Physical Activities -- Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Getting Information -- Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment -- Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.