Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Lathe and turning machine tool setters, operators, and tenders work with machines that shape metal and plastic materials like rods, wires, and bars through turning, boring, threading, and facing. These workers are employed in manufacturing facilities, machine shops, and metalworking plants where they set up equipment, monitor operations, and ensure finished parts meet specifications.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against lathe and turning machine tool 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 setting up lathe machines according to specifications, loading material, and adjusting cutting tools and speeds. Operators monitor machines during production runs, take measurements to verify accuracy, and make adjustments as needed. Tasks include changing worn tools, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and documenting production details. Setup and changeover between different jobs occupies significant time, especially when running custom or short-run orders.
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 do well in this work if you're practical-minded, detail-oriented, and comfortable following established procedures and standards. You prefer hands-on work with tangible results and take satisfaction in producing precise, quality parts. You're reliable, thorough, and able to solve straightforward mechanical problems.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $60,600 | $71,670 | $78,970 | 150 |
| Maine | $45,830 | $64,800 | $66,510 | 80 |
| Minnesota | $48,760 | $61,000 | $64,960 | 150 |
| Massachusetts | $48,520 | $60,870 | $68,930 | 690 |
| California | $48,130 | $60,180 | $68,740 | 2,600 |
| Alabama | $48,250 | $58,490 | $61,620 | 100 |
| Nevada | $48,560 | $58,240 | $69,910 | 60 |
| Pennsylvania | $47,180 | $57,020 | $66,500 | 580 |
| Arizona | $54,300 | $55,840 | $63,040 | 110 |
| Illinois | $44,550 | $54,930 | $57,330 | 1,260 |
| Maryland | $51,410 | $54,860 | $63,560 | 60 |
| North Carolina | $44,780 | $53,840 | $61,360 | 310 |
All 36 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Machining Level I - CNC Turning: Operations — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level I - Turning I (Chucking Skills) — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- CNC Lathe Operations — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level I - CNC Lathe Programming Setup & Operations — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- CAM Turning Programmer — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level I - Manual Turning Between Centers — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
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 lathe and turning machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4034.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.