Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Cutting, punching, and press machine setters and operators run machines that cut, bend, shear, or shape metal and plastic materials. They work in manufacturing facilities, metal fabrication shops, and plants that produce metal or plastic parts for various industries. The role involves both setup and operation of these machines.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves adjusting machine settings, loading materials, monitoring cuts and bends, and inspecting finished parts for accuracy. Operators check measurements against specifications, troubleshoot equipment issues, and make fine adjustments to maintain quality. They may spend significant time at the machine station, watching for errors and ensuring materials move safely through the cutting or forming process.
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 tend to do well in this work if you're detail-oriented, prefer structured tasks with clear procedures, and enjoy working with machinery and physical materials. You're practical-minded, comfortable following specifications and standards, and reliable in maintaining consistent work routines.
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
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $48,070 | $53,680 | $59,550 | 1,180 |
| Maine | $47,130 | $51,820 | $60,440 | 180 |
| Washington | $46,280 | $51,160 | $60,890 | 1,750 |
| Colorado | $45,840 | $50,790 | $59,830 | 1,400 |
| Minnesota | $42,850 | $49,770 | $60,130 | 6,130 |
| Wisconsin | $43,930 | $49,270 | $58,560 | 7,960 |
| Alaska | $45,160 | $49,010 | $58,320 | 80 |
| Illinois | $41,670 | $48,990 | $59,030 | 8,060 |
| Nebraska | $39,520 | $48,690 | $58,020 | 1,320 |
| Montana | $45,280 | $48,490 | $51,680 | 130 |
| California | $43,710 | $48,450 | $58,450 | 7,710 |
| North Dakota | $47,230 | $48,400 | $56,670 | 230 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Press Brake Level II - CNC Punch (Turret) Press Level II — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Precision Sheet Metal Operator (PSMO) — Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International
- Press Brake Operator — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Screw Machine Operations II (Single Spindle) — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Press Brake Level III - Set Up and Operate Non-CNC Mechanical III — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
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, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.