Machinists

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 4 (14%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 4 (14%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 21 (72%)

• Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Confer with numerical control programmers to check and ensure that new programs or machinery will function properly and that output will meet specifications.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications for improved efficiency or adaptability.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Confer with engineering, supervisory, or manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, or engineering information to determine methods or sequences of operations needed to fabricate products.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Design fixtures, tooling, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Prepare working sketches for the illustration of product appearance.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Fit and assemble parts to make or repair machine tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Diagnose machine tool malfunctions to determine need for adjustments or repairs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install repaired parts into equipment or install new equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Dismantle machines or equipment, using hand tools or power tools to examine parts for defects and replace defective parts where needed.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Test experimental models under simulated operating conditions, for purposes such as development, standardization, or feasibility of design.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Set up or operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Establish work procedures for fabricating new structural products, using a variety of metalworking machines.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants, or batteries into machines or mechanisms.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Advise clients about the materials being used for finished products.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use