Will AI replace Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders?AI replacement risk 48% and how the work is changing
Median annual pay
$43,530
25th–75th pct. $37,310–$49,320
Top pay (est.)
$76,100
Top 10% $58,570
Pay in 5 years
$50,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$58,400est.
$50,200–$67,800
Outlook score
49/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
48%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+3.4%
1,700 openings / yr
Will AI replace Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders? AI replacement risk
48%
Moderate
Ranked #493 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high
How AI is changing this job
A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.
AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →
Skills, education and requirements for Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Handling and Moving ObjectsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesControlling Machines and ProcessesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Important abilities
Near VisionTrunk StrengthPerceptual SpeedControl PrecisionExtent FlexibilityArm-Hand Steadiness
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.