Metal working machine tool setters and operators

Metal working machine tool setters and operators set and/or operate, various machine tools working to fine tolerances.

Skill level: Semi-skilled

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Salary range for the majority of workers in Metal working machine tool setters and operators - from £2,300 to £3,857 per month - 2026.
A Metal working machine tool setters and operators typically earns between £2,300 and £3,376 gross per month at the start of the job.
After 5 years of service, this is between £2,366 and £3,405 per month for a working week of 38 hours.

Setting one or more types of machine tool for production of metal articles in standardized series
Operating and monitoring metal working machines such as lathes, milling, planing, boring, drilling, grinding or honing machines, including multipurpose numerically controlled metal working machines
Performing similar tasks when machining plastics and other metal substitutes
Observing machine operations to detect work piece defects or machine malfunctions, and adjusting machines as necessary
Inspecting work pieces for defects, and measuring work pieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments
Changing worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools and brushes, using hand tools