Maintenance Workers, Machinery

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: 2 (11%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 1 (6%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 15 (83%)

• Read work orders and specifications to determine machines and equipment requiring repair or maintenance.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Record production, repair, and machine maintenance information.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Inventory and requisition machine parts, equipment, and other supplies so that stock can be maintained and replenished.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Start machines and observe mechanical operation to determine efficiency and to detect problems.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect or test damaged machine parts, and mark defective areas or advise supervisors of repair needs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Reassemble machines after the completion of repair or maintenance work.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Dismantle machines and remove parts for repair, using hand tools, chain falls, jacks, cranes, or hoists.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install, replace, or change machine parts and attachments, according to production specifications.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Collaborate with other workers to repair or move machines, machine parts, or equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set up and operate machines, and adjust controls to regulate operations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Lubricate or apply adhesives or other materials to machines, machine parts, or other equipment according to specified procedures.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Collect and discard worn machine parts and other refuse to maintain machinery and work areas.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean machines and machine parts, using cleaning solvents, cloths, air guns, hoses, vacuums, or other equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Transport machine parts, tools, equipment, and other material between work areas and storage, using cranes, hoists, or dollies.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Replace, empty, or replenish machine and equipment containers such as gas tanks or boxes.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Replace or repair metal, wood, leather, glass, or other lining in machines, or in equipment compartments or containers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove hardened material from machines or machine parts, using abrasives, power and hand tools, jackhammers, sledgehammers, or other equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Measure, mix, prepare, and test chemical solutions used to clean or repair machinery and equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task