Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Cutting and slicing machine setters, operators, and tenders run equipment that cuts or slices various materials including glass, stone, food, paper, rubber, and insulation. This work takes place in manufacturing plants, food processing facilities, and industrial shops where precision cutting is needed for production.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cutting and slicing machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves setting up machines according to specifications, feeding materials into cutting equipment, monitoring the process for quality and safety, and adjusting settings as needed. Operators inspect finished pieces, perform basic maintenance, keep records of production, and may switch between different materials and machine types depending on the plant's schedule and orders.
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're likely to succeed in this role if you prefer hands-on work with machines and systems over abstract tasks, and if you're detail-oriented and follow procedures carefully. This work suits people who find satisfaction in keeping operations running smoothly and who like to know exactly what's expected of them.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $51,420 | $58,260 | $63,190 | 1,130 |
| Vermont | $46,600 | $52,220 | $60,470 | 100 |
| Colorado | $44,560 | $51,750 | $58,280 | 700 |
| Montana | $41,720 | $51,540 | $59,500 | 100 |
| Oregon | $50,410 | $51,180 | $58,860 | 990 |
| Missouri | $45,370 | $50,930 | $57,400 | 1,120 |
| Washington | $46,830 | $50,430 | $59,850 | 760 |
| New Hampshire | $42,750 | $50,290 | $60,880 | 90 |
| Illinois | $47,490 | $49,740 | $58,630 | 1,770 |
| New York | $44,710 | $49,680 | $59,080 | 1,870 |
| Iowa | $44,900 | $49,600 | $60,890 | 920 |
| Maine | $38,820 | $49,200 | $51,750 | 160 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Fluid Power Hydraulic Specialist (CFPHS) — International Fluid Power Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cutting and slicing machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.