Core Machine Operator

In manufacturing, metal and plastic products often contain bubbles of space that can be filled with batteries, gears, springs, or computer chips. Welders could use torches to melt away materials to make these holes, but it’s more efficient to create the space at the beginning of the manufacturing process, and then pour the hot metal or plastic around the core. A Core Machine Operator creates these bubbles of space.

As a Core Machine Operator, you rely on drawings made by Engineers, Product Designers, or Artists that detail exactly how big the core should be and what it should be made of. In most cases, the cores you create as a Core Machine Operator are made of sand, which can stand up to an onslaught of hot metal or plastic, but there may be times when you’ll use paper.

Once you’ve determined the specifics of the core you’re making, you load your tool up with the proper raw materials, turn on the tool, and watch closely as the core is created. Most machines emit a loud beep when they’re done, but you may have to watch a timer closely and shut the machine off by hand. When the piece is done, you compare it to the drawings to make sure it looks right, and you sand off any rough spots you find.

Maintaining the machine, including oiling squealing parts and replacing worn belts, is your responsibility. Major repairs, such as a blown gasket or a faulty computer, may necessitate a call to a qualified Mechanic.