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

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$43,960
25th–75th pct. $37,260–$49,600
Top pay (est.)
$78,500
Top 10% $60,370
Pay in 5 years
$49,600est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$56,000est.
$48,200–$65,100
Outlook score
31/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
31%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−9.7%
2,500 openings / yr

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

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
3.1
Monitoring
3.0
Active Listening
3.0
Operation and Control
3.0
Reading Comprehension
2.9
Quality Control Analysis
2.8
Speaking
2.8
Time Management
2.8

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Production and Processing
5.0
Education and Training
3.7
Mathematics
3.6
Chemistry
3.4
Administration and Management
3.2
Mechanical
3.2
Engineering and Technology
3.2
Physics
3.2

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleInspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

Important abilities

Oral ComprehensionNear VisionMultilimb CoordinationManual DexterityControl PrecisionTrunk Strength

Education of workers

Less than high school
49%
High school diploma
47%
Bachelor's degree
3%

Training before entry

1–2 years
35%
1–3 months
25%
6–12 months
6%
Up to 1 month
3%
3–6 months
1%

Related work experience

Up to 1 month
14%
6–12 months
11%
4–6 years
9%
3–6 months
6%
1–2 years
5%
1–3 months
3%

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 Plating 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.