{"schemaVersion":"1.0","exportedAt":"2026-05-15T12:39:41.012Z","occupation":{"soc":"51-4022.00","title":"Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic","group":"Production","sector":"31-33","jobZone":2,"jobZoneInferred":false},"framework":{"version":"v.26.05","description":"","contextCovered":"This framework covers forging machine setup, operation, and quality inspection in metal and plastic production environments ranging from entry-level line support to lead-level process ownership and workforce development.","levels":{"emerging":{"label":"Emerging","statements":["Work orders and basic blueprints — read and interpret under direct supervision to identify specified tolerances and operation sequences on the shop floor.","Metal workpieces and wire stock — position and feed through die stations following step-by-step direction from a lead operator.","Hand tools and basic gauges — select and use under supervision to perform initial inspections of forged parts against product specifications.","Press and forging machine controls — identify and operate basic functions, including starting and stopping, under close guidance on the production line.","Ram stroke handles and pressure knobs — adjust to preset values following written setup instructions provided by a senior operator.","Machine malfunctions and irregular sounds — recognize and report immediately to a supervisor during monitored production runs.","Dies and stop guides — observe and assist during installation and removal procedures, learning the use of hand tools and hoisting devices.","Sample workpieces — produce under supervision and compare against specification sheets to confirm basic setup accuracy.","Verbal instructions from co-workers and leads — listen actively and confirm understanding before executing machine setup or operational changes.","Production and processing terminology — apply foundational knowledge to follow daily work orders and communicate basic status updates on the line."]},"developing":{"label":"Developing","statements":["Work orders and engineering blueprints — read and interpret independently to determine operation sequences and tolerance requirements for routine machine setups.","Metal wires and workpieces — position and advance through multiple die impressions with consistent accuracy, adjusting placement as needed in familiar forging contexts.","Calipers, micrometers, and gauges — use routinely to measure and inspect machined parts and document conformance to product specifications.","Hot and cold forging presses — set up, operate, and tend to perform flattening, bending, cutting, and piercing operations with reduced oversight.","Ram stroke depth and machine synchronization settings — turn and calibrate knobs and handles to achieve specified pressure and timing profiles.","Dies, synchronizing cams, and stop guides — install, adjust, and remove using overhead cranes and hand tools, following established safety procedures.","Production runs and sample workpieces — monitor operations continuously, identifying minor malfunctions and making corrective adjustments before defects propagate.","Operational specifications and setup parameters — discuss and confirm with co-workers and leads to coordinate smooth shift transitions and machine changeovers.","Inventory management software — use to track die usage and consumable stock levels, flagging replenishment needs to the appropriate team member.","Time and workflow priorities — manage personal production schedule to meet shift output targets while maintaining quality standards on a moderate-volume line."]},"proficient":{"label":"Proficient","statements":["Complex blueprints and multi-operation work orders — analyze independently to plan full setup sequences, resolve tolerance conflicts, and optimize production flow.","Diverse metal alloys and plastic workpieces — route through varied die series, making real-time adjustments to compensate for material behavior and dimensional drift.","Full dimensional inspection routines — execute autonomously using precision instruments, interpret out-of-tolerance trends, and recommend process corrections to maintain conformance.","Multiple press and forging machine types — set up and operate across hot and cold forging applications, handling non-routine configurations and uncommon stock profiles.","Machine pressure, stroke depth, and synchronization — fine-tune across interdependent parameters to achieve optimum forming quality for complex or tight-tolerance parts.","Die changeover and alignment procedures — lead complete installation and adjustment cycles, troubleshooting fit and timing issues without supervisor intervention.","Machine performance during production runs — monitor systematically using operational data and sensory cues, diagnosing root causes of defects and implementing corrective actions.","Industrial control software and electronic systems — use proficiently to input setup parameters, log production data, and review operational history for quality assurance.","Cross-functional setup consultations — facilitate discussions with co-workers, quality personnel, and maintenance staff to resolve specification ambiguities and recurring operational issues.","Mathematical calculations for tolerances and material yield — apply to verify setups, evaluate scrap rates, and support process improvement decisions on the production floor."]},"advanced":{"label":"Advanced","statements":["Department-wide setup standards and procedures — develop and document to ensure consistency, quality, and safety across all forging press operations in the facility.","New die designs and tooling configurations — evaluate and validate through trial runs, providing technical feedback to engineering and design teams before full production release.","Operator training programs — design and deliver to build competency in blueprint reading, machine setup, and inspection practices for entry- and mid-level production staff.","Production scheduling and machine utilization — analyze and optimize across multiple forging lines to maximize throughput and minimize downtime at an organizational scale.","Complex or chronic quality problems — lead root-cause investigations using inspection data, operational logs, and process knowledge to implement lasting corrective and preventive actions.","Capital equipment purchases and tooling investments — advise management by assessing technical requirements, vendor capabilities, and production impact based on deep operational expertise.","Safety culture and compliance standards — champion and reinforce across the production workforce, identifying hazards in forging operations and driving corrective infrastructure improvements.","Inventory management and tooling lifecycle systems — oversee to ensure die condition tracking, preventive maintenance scheduling, and supply readiness align with production demand.","Cross-shift and inter-departmental coordination — lead to align forging operations with upstream material supply and downstream finishing schedules, resolving systemic bottlenecks.","Workforce performance and skill development — mentor senior operators and developing setters, providing structured feedback and identifying advancement opportunities within the production organization."]}}},"sources":{"onet":"v30.2 (CC BY 4.0)","crosswalk":"https://skillscrosswalk.com","generator":"LER.me"},"attribution":"© EBSCOed"}