Despite the fact that they have proved to be decisive in reducing a great deal of human effort, machines, be it of any type - complex or unsophisticated, need human hands to operate and direct them while performing the assigned tasks. Here is where the role of machine operators comes into play.
They are generally employed in manufacturing companies which manufacture consumer goods. Their main job is to operate and handle heavy equipment, computer controlled machines, and more mechanically supported machineries from setup to execution and help in easy running of the production business. Besides, they also perform administrative duties and execute critical maintenance responsibilities of the machines operated by them.
Though they may function as quality assurance personnel, fabricators, craftsmen, builders, etc., the machine operators are basically of two types depending upon the type of work performed.
Tenders: These monitor and gauge the speed, weight, load, grade, and quality including other related facets of the machineries before and while they are being operated. They usually possess in-depth understanding of the working mechanism of different systems.
Setters: These look into the technicalities of all equipment and machines to upgrade them with the necessary tooling and gauges with a view to ensure their sound functionality, quality maintenance, and safe keeping.
Again, the professionals could also be categorized as drill-press, lathe, boring machine, precision grinding machine, milling machine, etc., operators, according to the kind of machinery controlled by them. As a requirement, the operators are needed to follow safety methods while working with the machines to avoid injuries and accidents. They are subjected to wear the necessary protective clothing, providing protection from harmful fumes and chemicals used in the manufacturing of goods.
Most employers typically favor a high school diploma; however, it may not necessarily be a prerequisite. Some companies prefer candidates who have completed formal training programs in the required fields. On-the-job training and apprenticeship are common agencies of acquiring the expected skills and knowledge.
Aspirants can also take up advanced educational courses such as Precision Sheet Metal Operator (PSMO), Computer Numerical Control (CNC), and other certifications offered by technical and vocational schools.
The compensations offered largely vary according to experience, type of machinery, and the organization size. Even so, on an average, the machine operators are paid about $19.19 per hour as per the 2010 statistics.
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