Shigoto Zukan
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How to become layout workers, metal and plasticeducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$63,870
25th–75th pct. $50,910–$79,470
Top pay (est.)
$122,000
Top 10% $93,860
Pay in 5 years
$73,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$84,300est.
$72,500–$97,900
Outlook score
45/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
25%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−3.4%
500 openings / yr

How to become layout workers, 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 Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic

Key skills

Mathematics
3.1
Critical Thinking
3.1
Monitoring
3.0
Coordination
3.0
Reading Comprehension
2.9
Active Listening
2.9
Complex Problem Solving
2.9
Quality Control Analysis
2.9

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Design
4.5
Mathematics
4.2
Building and Construction
4.2
Engineering and Technology
4.1
Mechanical
4.0
English Language
3.7
Production and Processing
3.4
Education and Training
3.3

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesPerforming General Physical ActivitiesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment

Important abilities

Near VisionVisualizationOral ComprehensionArm-Hand SteadinessProblem SensitivityCategory Flexibility

Education of workers

High school diploma
60%
Some college
15%
Post-secondary certificate
12%
Associate's degree
9%
Less than high school
5%

Training before entry

None / short demo
25%
6–12 months
20%
1–2 years
17%
2–4 years
14%
3–6 months
10%
1–3 months
9%
Up to 1 month
5%

Related work experience

1–2 years
55%
4–6 years
18%
None
9%
6–12 months
9%
2–4 years
6%
1–3 months
2%

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 layout workers, 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.