Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders
SOC Code: 51-9196Also known as:
Bag Machine Operator, Bag Machine Tender, Bag Maker, Bag Presser, Bag Valver
Median Annual Salary
$49,390
-6.3% growth (2024-2034)
8K
Openings/Year
98K
Current Jobs
What Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders Do
Set up, operate, or tend paper goods machines that perform a variety of functions, such as converting, sawing, corrugating, banding, wrapping, boxing, stitching, forming, or sealing paper or paperboard sheets into products.
💰 Salary
$49,390
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-6.3%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
8K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
97,500
Projected Employment (2034)
91,400
Related Careers
Textile cutting machine setters, operators, and tenders
$37,940 •
-11.7% growth
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
Machine feeders and offbearers
$39,700 •
-13.0% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Operation and Control
Quality Control Analysis
Active Listening
Speaking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Examine completed work to detect defects and verify conformance to work orders, and adjust machinery as necessary to correct production problems.
- Observe operation of various machines to detect and correct machine malfunctions such as improper forming, glue flow, or pasteboard tension.
- Start machines and move controls to regulate tension on pressure rolls, to synchronize speed of machine components, and to adjust temperatures of glue or paraffin.
- Disassemble machines to maintain, repair, or replace broken or worn parts, using hand or power tools.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
College rankings for this career path are being calculated. Check back soon!
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders make?
The median annual salary for paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders is $49,390.
What education do paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders need?
Most paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders a good career choice?
Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders is projected to see -6.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 8,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for paper goods 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 paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders?
Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders may also be known as: Bag Machine Operator, Bag Machine Tender, Bag Maker, Bag Presser, Bag Valver, Bender Machine Operator, Binder, Box Brander, Box Fabricator, Box Finisher, Box Folding Machine Operator, Box Liner, Box Machine Operator, Box Stamper, Bundler, Card Folder, Carton Folder, Carton Forming Machine Operator, Carton Maker, Carton Making Machine Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.