Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders set up and run machines that heat, shape, and form metal or plastic into finished parts. They work in manufacturing facilities, foundries, and metalworking shops, monitoring machines, adjusting settings, and ensuring parts meet specifications. The work requires attention to detail and basic mechanical knowledge.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forging 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 starting machines, loading raw materials, and monitoring production runs. Operators check completed parts for defects, make adjustments to machine settings based on measurements, and perform routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating equipment. They keep records of production output and report problems to supervisors. Safety protocols, including proper use of protective equipment, are a constant part of the routine.
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 prefer structured, hands-on tasks and follow established procedures without much interpretation. You're detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and comfortable with repetitive work in an industrial environment. You learn best through demonstration and practice rather than theory.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $52,180 | $69,210 | $83,590 | 30 |
| Oklahoma | $50,300 | $61,720 | $62,150 | — |
| Michigan | $47,230 | $61,620 | $64,030 | 620 |
| Nebraska | $60,460 | $60,460 | $64,980 | 200 |
| Wisconsin | $53,340 | $60,310 | $60,500 | 80 |
| California | $45,850 | $59,250 | $78,240 | 750 |
| Colorado | $47,010 | $57,970 | $62,480 | 140 |
| Ohio | $49,130 | $56,870 | $60,660 | 500 |
| New York | $46,670 | $56,350 | $63,590 | 260 |
| Missouri | $45,860 | $55,210 | $55,620 | 60 |
| Virginia | $48,130 | $54,230 | $55,740 | 560 |
| Indiana | $48,960 | $53,550 | $57,910 | 450 |
All 32 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forging machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.