Will AI take my job

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Will AI replace Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators?

AI reaches little of this job’s work.

18/100

Low exposure

More exposed to AI than 32% of US workers.

AI already used in
3% of the work
As AI tools mature: up to
37% of the work

What the job involves

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.

Where AI reaches the work

The job’s main tasks, heaviest first, by how far AI reaches them.

Already happening(1)

  • Enter commands or load control media, such as tapes, cards, or disks, into machine controllers to retrieve programmed instructions.

Within reach(9)

  • Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
  • Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  • Implement changes to machine programs, and enter new specifications, using computers.
  • Transfer commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links.
  • Modify cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation, and save modified programs.

and 4 more

Out of reach(17)

  • Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  • Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  • Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
  • Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration, and adjust machines to compensate for problems.
  • Remove and replace dull cutting tools.

and 12 more

Also called

CNC Machinist · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist) · Numerical Control Drill Press Operator · Numerical Control Machine Operator · CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator) · CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator) · CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist) · CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)

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What these numbers mean

The score is the share of this job’s work, weighted by how important and frequent each task is, that AI could do in half the time: tasks an AI model could do alone count in full, tasks that need software built on AI count half.

“AI already used” is the share of the work in tasks where people are recorded using AI today. “As AI tools mature” counts every task AI could halve, with or without extra software.

The percentile compares the score with every job’s, weighted by how many people in the US do each one. Exposure means AI could change how the work is done, not that the job goes away. These are estimates for the typical job, not predictions.

Sources

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