Production & Manufacturing · Set up, operate, or tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material.
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$31–38k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$48–57k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
-12.1% · Declining
Projected decline of -12.1% from 2024 to 2034; about 14 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
1–2 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Plastic
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Experienced Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Senior Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Director of Production & Manufacturing
You prioritize Relationships
This career is strongly aligned with Relationships — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Operation and Control
Operation and Control is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires short-term training (less than 1 year), which matches common student preparation goals.
Browse schools offering programs in this field
259 schools offer programs in this career field.
Browse 259 Schools Offering This Program →