Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders
Cleaning, washing, and metal pickling equipment operators run machines that remove impurities from items like barrels, kegs, glassware, tin plate, food products, pulp, coal, plastic, and rubber. Work takes place in manufacturing facilities, food processing plants, metal treatment shops, and recycling centers. The role requires monitoring equipment operation and ensuring products meet cleanliness standards.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cleaning, washing, and metal pickling equipment operators and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves loading items into washing or pickling machines, setting controls, and monitoring the cleaning cycle. Operators inspect finished products for quality, record production data, and perform routine equipment maintenance. Work may include adjusting machine settings based on product type, removing processed items, and restocking materials. Physical tasks like lifting and standing are common, with shifts that may run multiple hours.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You do well in this work if you prefer hands-on, structured tasks and clear procedures—typical of realistic and conventional interests. You're reliable with machinery, pay attention to details, and follow established routines without needing constant supervision or variety.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $43,040 | $64,610 | $76,100 | 40 |
| Wisconsin | $48,580 | $54,290 | $58,920 | 310 |
| Oregon | $41,190 | $49,130 | $51,200 | 70 |
| North Dakota | $42,940 | $48,240 | $49,660 | 60 |
| Pennsylvania | $44,390 | $48,000 | $53,010 | 370 |
| New Hampshire | $42,980 | $47,510 | $56,930 | 120 |
| Iowa | $42,350 | $46,970 | $56,100 | 430 |
| New York | $38,850 | $46,290 | $54,220 | 710 |
| Nebraska | $37,300 | $45,690 | $51,790 | 400 |
| Washington | $41,050 | $45,600 | $48,530 | 180 |
| Ohio | $37,910 | $45,470 | $52,150 | 1,010 |
| Virginia | $36,010 | $45,330 | $64,960 | 140 |
All 39 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cleaning, washing, and metal pickling equipment operators and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9192.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.