Extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders
SOC Code: 51-9041Also known as:
Abrasive Wheel Molder, Air Bag Curer, Alfalfa Dehydrator Operator, Arch Cushion Press Operator, Artificial Log Machine Operator
Median Annual Salary
$45,130
+2.0% growth (2024-2034)
5K
Openings/Year
57K
Current Jobs
What Extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders Do
Set up, operate, or tend machines, such as glass-forming machines, plodder machines, and tuber machines, to shape and form products such as glassware, food, rubber, soap, brick, tile, clay, wax, tobacco, or cosmetics.
💰 Salary
$45,130
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+2.0%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
5K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
57,300
Projected Employment (2034)
58,400
Related Careers
Extruding and forming machine setters, operators, and tenders, synthetic and glass fibers
$44,980 •
-1.1% growth
Cutting and slicing machine setters, operators, and tenders
$45,700 •
-2.3% growth
Adhesive bonding machine operators and tenders
$45,210 •
+1.0% growth
Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders
$49,390 •
-6.3% growth
Machine feeders and offbearers
$39,700 •
-13.0% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Operation and Control
Monitoring
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, and temperatures, and amounts, dimensions, and flow of materials or ingredients.
- Press control buttons to activate machinery and equipment.
- Examine, measure, and weigh materials or products to verify conformance to standards, using measuring devices such as templates, micrometers, or scales.
- Monitor machine operations and observe lights and gauges to detect malfunctions.
- Clear jams, and remove defective or substandard materials or products.
- Notify supervisors when extruded filaments fail to meet standards.
- Record and maintain production data, such as meter readings, and quantities, types, and dimensions of materials produced.
- Review work orders, specifications, or instructions to determine materials, ingredients, procedures, components, settings, and adjustments for extruding, forming, pressing, or compacting machines.
- Turn controls to adjust machine functions, such as regulating air pressure, creating vacuums, and adjusting coolant flow.
- Clean dies, arbors, compression chambers, and molds, using swabs, sponges, or air hoses.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders make?
The median annual salary for extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders is $45,130.
What education do extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders need?
Most extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders a good career choice?
Extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders is projected to see +2.0% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 5,200 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders?
Extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders may also be known as: Abrasive Wheel Molder, Air Bag Curer, Alfalfa Dehydrator Operator, Arch Cushion Press Operator, Artificial Log Machine Operator, Auger Press Operator, Automatic Lump Making Machine Tender, Bag Bailer, Bag Builder, Bailer, Bailing Machine Operator, Baler, Baler Operator, Baling Machine Operator, Bark Press Operator, Belt Press Operator, Block Maker, Block Making Machine Operator, Block Press Operator, Blow Molding Machine Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.