Aptly
Careers · Production

Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers

Extruding and forming machine setters, operators, and tenders work with specialized equipment that creates continuous fibers from synthetic materials like liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass. These workers set up machines, monitor production, and make adjustments to ensure proper fiber formation. Most work in manufacturing facilities that produce synthetic or fiberglass products.

$46,350median pay, U.S., per year
$39,360–$57,280middle half earn
13Kemployed in the U.S.
High school diplomatypical education
LowAI exposure · AI tools touch only a small share of this work.
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A day in the work

Workers typically begin by inspecting machines and checking material supplies before starting production runs. During shifts, they monitor fiber formation, temperature controls, and winding processes, making adjustments as needed. They perform routine maintenance, clean equipment, troubleshoot problems when threads break or quality issues arise, and record production data. Breaks and shift changes provide natural pauses in the repetitive monitoring work.

Who this work suits

Realistic
92Conventional
51Investigative
20Enterprising
7Artistic
5Social
4

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 likely do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and comfortable following established procedures and specifications—the conventional preference. You need patience for monitoring machines and mechanical aptitude to troubleshoot issues, which appeals to those with realistic interests in hands-on, tangible work.

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

Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlMonitoringActive ListeningSpeakingCoordinationComplex Problem SolvingQuality Control Analysis

Knowledge areas

Production and ProcessingEnglish LanguageMathematics (knowledge)Education and TrainingMechanicalCustomer and Personal Service

Pay by state

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

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against extruding and forming machine setters, operators, and tenders, synthetic and glass fibers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 51-6091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.