Will AI Replace Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic?

Mark curves, lines, holes, dimensions, and welding symbols onto workpieces, using scribes, soapstones, punches, and hand drills.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Plan locations and sequences of cutting, drilling, bending, rolling, punching, and welding operations, using compasses, protractors, dividers, and rules.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Fit and align fabricated parts to be welded or assembled.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Locate center lines and verify template positions, using measuring instruments such as gauge blocks, height gauges, and dial indicators.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Plan and develop layouts from blueprints and templates, applying knowledge of trigonometry, design, effects of heat, and properties of metals.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Lay out and fabricate metal structural parts such as plates, bulkheads, and frames.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Compute layout dimensions, and determine and mark reference points on metal stock or workpieces for further processing, such as welding and assembly.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Lift and position workpieces in relation to surface plates, manually or with hoists, and using parallel blocks and angle plates.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Design and prepare templates of wood, paper, or metal.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Install doors, hatches, brackets, and clips.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Brace parts in position within hulls or ships for riveting or welding.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Inspect machined parts to verify conformance to specifications.

Semi-structured cognitive task involving analysis, inspection, or monitoring.

Add dimensional details to blueprints or drawings made by other workers.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Apply pigment to layout surfaces, using paint brushes.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.