Drill Press

Term from Set Construction industry explained for recruiters

A Drill Press is a basic but important piece of equipment used in set construction and woodworking. It's like a more precise, stable version of a handheld drill that's mounted on a stand. Workers use it to make accurate holes in materials like wood, metal, or plastic for set building. Unlike regular handheld drills, a drill press ensures holes are perfectly straight and consistent, which is crucial for professional-quality set construction. You might also hear it called a "pedestal drill," "bench drill," or "pillar drill" - these all mean the same thing.

Examples in Resumes

Operated Drill Press to create precise holes for set assembly and furniture construction

Trained junior staff on safe operation of Drill Press and other workshop equipment

Used Drill Press and Pedestal Drill for detailed work on theatrical props and set pieces

Typical job title: "Set Construction Workers"

Also try searching for:

Set Builder Theater Carpenter Stage Carpenter Scenic Carpenter Workshop Technician Set Construction Technician Props Maker

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you plan and oversee a complex set construction project involving multiple drill press operations?

Expected Answer: A senior worker should discuss project planning, safety protocols, material selection, team coordination, and quality control measures. They should mention how to delegate tasks and train others on proper equipment use.

Q: What maintenance procedures would you implement for workshop equipment including drill presses?

Expected Answer: Should explain regular maintenance schedules, cleaning procedures, when to replace parts, safety checks, and how to keep maintenance logs. Should also discuss training others on proper care of equipment.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety precautions do you take when using a drill press?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper eye protection, securing materials, speed settings, proper bit selection, clean workspace, and checking equipment condition before use.

Q: How do you determine the correct speed and bit type for different materials?

Expected Answer: Should explain how material type and thickness affect speed selection, different bit types for wood vs metal, and how to prevent material damage.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic parts of a drill press?

Expected Answer: Should identify the main components: base, column, table, head, chuck, speed control, and depth stop. Basic understanding of what each part does.

Q: How do you make sure a hole is drilled straight and at the right depth?

Expected Answer: Should explain using the depth stop feature, marking hole locations, using a test piece, and checking the table is level.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic drill press operation
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Simple hole drilling and basic maintenance
  • Following project plans and instructions

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced drilling techniques
  • Material selection knowledge
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Problem-solving skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Training and supervision
  • Complex construction planning
  • Workshop safety management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Unable to explain proper speed settings for different materials
  • Lack of experience with maintenance procedures
  • No understanding of measurement and marking techniques

Related Terms