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.
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.
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
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
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $48,910 | $61,440 | $67,240 | 380 |
| Alabama | $43,960 | $60,100 | $63,180 | 930 |
| Indiana | $47,520 | $57,200 | $57,200 | 390 |
| Pennsylvania | $36,440 | $55,960 | $66,610 | 490 |
| Minnesota | $48,940 | $52,600 | $60,620 | 410 |
| Maryland | $50,790 | $50,790 | $56,980 | — |
| Kansas | $46,620 | $50,320 | $66,930 | 320 |
| Michigan | $47,280 | $49,180 | $53,930 | 180 |
| Missouri | $48,810 | $48,810 | $51,710 | 70 |
| Iowa | $40,430 | $48,400 | $57,430 | 100 |
| Arkansas | $46,900 | $47,770 | $47,970 | 90 |
| Texas | $35,980 | $46,970 | $59,460 | 520 |
All 24 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 forming machine setters, operators, and tenders, synthetic and glass fibers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-6091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.