Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

People in this occupation focus on controlling machines and processes to shape metal or plastic workpieces. Daily tasks involve monitoring processes and inspecting equipment to ensure everything runs safely and meets specific standards. Operators must handle and move objects, process operational information, and communicate regularly with supervisors and peers to coordinate tasks.

Succeeding in this role requires strong skills in operations monitoring, quality control analysis, and critical thinking to solve complex problems on the shop floor. Workers need a solid foundation in mechanical concepts, production and processing, mathematics, and computers. This career strongly appeals to individuals with realistic interests who enjoy hands-on, practical work. To maintain safety and accuracy, operators rely on work styles such as attention to detail, dependability, cautiousness, and stress tolerance.

To enter this field, workers typically need a high school diploma. This occupation is classified under O*NET Job Zone 2, meaning it requires some preparation, which usually includes a mix of on-the-job training and basic work experience. Students interested in this career path often pursue college majors in precision metal working.

While not always mandatory, obtaining professional certifications can help demonstrate technical competency. Available credentials include the CAM Turning Programmer, CNC Lathe Operations, and Machining Level I certifications in CNC Mill Operations or CNC Milling: Programming Setup & Operations, all offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills. Additionally, workers can pursue Level 1 - Welding certification through the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

In 2025, the median annual pay for these machine operators was $52,800. Earnings can vary based on experience and location, with the lowest 10% earning less than $37,840 and the highest 10% earning more than $81,030.

There are 12,460 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to decline by -13.2%. Despite this projected decrease in total jobs, the industry still expects about 1,000 openings each year to replace workers who leave the field.