Shigoto Zukan
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How to become Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plasticeducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$49,030
25th–75th pct. $42,440–$60,130
Top pay (est.)
$89,300
Top 10% $68,720
Pay in 5 years
$54,800est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$61,200est.
$52,600–$71,000
Outlook score
27/100
★☆☆☆☆ Weak
AI replacement risk
45%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
−17.2%
600 openings / yr

How to become Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Key skills

Operation and Control
3.2
Operations Monitoring
3.2
Critical Thinking
3.0
Active Listening
3.0
Reading Comprehension
3.0
Monitoring
3.0
Speaking
2.9
Quality Control Analysis
2.9

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
4.1
Production and Processing
3.8
Mathematics
2.6
Administration and Management
2.2
Education and Training
2.1
Computers and Electronics
2.0
English Language
1.9
Public Safety and Security
0.8

What the work involves

Controlling Machines and ProcessesInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsProcessing InformationCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesHandling and Moving Objects

Important abilities

Control PrecisionNear VisionVisualizationRate ControlReaction TimeTrunk Strength

Training before entry

1–3 months
32%
Up to 1 month
25%
6–12 months
25%
1–2 years
14%
2–4 years
2%
None / short demo
1%

Related work experience

2–4 years
28%
6–12 months
25%
1–3 months
4%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

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.