Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Extruding and drawing machine setters, operators, and tenders work in manufacturing facilities to run machines that shape thermoplastic or metal materials into tubes, rods, hoses, wire, bars, and structural shapes. These workers set up equipment, monitor production, and adjust machines to meet specifications.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against extruding and drawing machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves inspecting raw materials, adjusting machine settings for temperature and pressure, feeding materials into extruders or drawing machines, and monitoring output for defects. Workers track production logs, perform routine maintenance, clear equipment jams, and make adjustments to ensure finished products meet quality standards. The work is primarily hands-on and station-based.
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 prefer practical, structured work with clear procedures and tangible results. You do well with attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow established guidelines—making this role a good fit if you value predictability and concrete problem-solving.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $50,000 | $61,350 | $66,960 | 430 |
| Vermont | $44,300 | $59,220 | $69,560 | 60 |
| North Carolina | $44,470 | $53,330 | $56,840 | 2,950 |
| Nebraska | $47,660 | $52,360 | $58,470 | 510 |
| Minnesota | $46,910 | $51,830 | $60,370 | 900 |
| New Jersey | $43,770 | $51,180 | $61,140 | 750 |
| Pennsylvania | $45,660 | $51,150 | $60,370 | 2,960 |
| Colorado | $45,790 | $51,110 | $58,240 | 240 |
| Massachusetts | $45,210 | $50,370 | $58,240 | 1,490 |
| Connecticut | $46,630 | $50,230 | $57,040 | 1,000 |
| Wisconsin | $42,900 | $50,230 | $64,760 | 3,190 |
| New Hampshire | $49,900 | $50,210 | $68,010 | 580 |
All 46 states
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 extruding and drawing machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.