Production & Manufacturing · Set up, operate, or tend heating equipment, such as heat-treating furnaces, flame-hardening machines, induction machines, soaking pits, or vacuum equipment to temper, harden, anneal, or heat treat metal or plastic objects.
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
$37–45k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$49–58k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
-12.8% · Declining
Projected decline of -12.8% from 2024 to 2034; about 1 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
Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Experienced Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Senior Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Director of Production & Manufacturing
You prioritize Support
This career is strongly aligned with Support — 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.
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