Will AI replace Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators?
Estimated risk score: 28 out of 100
Lower replacement risk
Estimate from published task research, not reviewed by a person · how we estimate
Within about 19 points for 4 in 5 of the jobs we checked (9 to 47).
For the occupation as a whole, from ratings of its 27 O*NET tasks published in 2023 and calibrated to our hand scores. A specialty inside it can sit higher or lower.
O*NET-SOC 51-9161.00 · Production
Tasks rated in 2023 as ones AI could do or speed up
Tasks a GPT-4-class model could do, or do in half the time or less: 6 of its 27 rated tasks. In O*NET’s words.
- Calculate machine speed and feed ratios and the size and position of cuts.
- Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.
- Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
- Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.
- Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
- Write simple programs for computer-controlled machine tools.
Tasks rated in 2023 as not sped up by AI
Tasks such a model was rated as not speeding up or taking over: 19 of its 27 rated tasks; the first 6 are shown. In O*NET’s words.
- Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction.
- Check to ensure that workpieces are properly lubricated and cooled during machine operation.
- Clean machines, tooling, or parts, using solvents or solutions and rags.
- Control coolant systems.
- Insert control instructions into machine control units to start operation.
- Lift workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
What the job is
Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.
Also called: PLC Tech, CNC Gear Operator, Metal CNC Operator, CNC Router Operator, CNC Set Up Operator, Shot Peening Operator, Welding Robot Operator, Laser Beam Trim Operator.
Related jobs, estimated
Source. This site includes information from the O*NET 30.1 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. (O*NET, CC BY 4.0.) Task ratings: Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin and Rock (2023), “GPTs are GPTs: An Early Look at the Labor Market Impact Potential of Large Language Models”, data used under the MIT licence (licence texts). Our change: we averaged the ratings over this occupation’s tasks and calibrated them to our 0–100 scale. It is not a prediction about any one person and not career advice. Disagree? Write to hello@yourstopwashit.com. How we estimate