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Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Kentucky

Drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders set up and run machines that drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink holes and features in metal and plastic parts. They work in manufacturing facilities, machine shops, and industrial plants, following blueprints and specifications to produce precise components for various industries. In Kentucky the median pay is $51,740 a year, 5% above the national median of $49,080.

$51,740median pay in Kentucky, per year
$48,980–$51,740middle half earn
$49,080U.S. median, for comparison
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
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What it takes

Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most hold a high school diploma.

Skills that matter most

Operations MonitoringReading ComprehensionMonitoringOperation and ControlActive ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingComplex Problem Solving

Knowledge areas

Mathematics (knowledge)Production and ProcessingMechanicalEnglish LanguageEngineering and TechnologyEducation and Training

Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

Licenses and training in Kentucky

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic pay in other states

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against drilling and boring machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 51-4032.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Kentucky, annual.