Machine Feeders and Offbearers
Machine feeders and offbearers load materials into or unload finished products from machines and equipment, either automated or operated by other workers. This work takes place in manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and production plants across various industries. The role involves repetitive, hands-on tasks that keep production lines moving.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against machine feeders and offbearers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves standing at or near machines, monitoring material levels, and feeding raw materials into equipment on schedule. Offbearers remove completed items or byproducts and stack or sort them for next steps. Tasks may include adjusting machine settings, cleaning work areas, and keeping track of materials. Workers often follow established procedures and coordinate with machine operators and supervisors to maintain steady production flow.
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're suited to this work if you prefer practical, hands-on tasks over abstract problems and like following clear procedures and standards. You tend to be reliable and detail-oriented, comfortable with routine work, and work well in structured environments with specific expectations.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $50,390 | $55,120 | $59,190 | 570 |
| Wyoming | $48,280 | $51,280 | $51,770 | 30 |
| Minnesota | $46,760 | $48,740 | $54,620 | 410 |
| Colorado | $38,010 | $48,400 | $54,200 | 650 |
| Kansas | $47,860 | $47,930 | $50,810 | 430 |
| Missouri | $36,340 | $46,580 | $62,960 | 1,280 |
| New Hampshire | $37,500 | $46,580 | $59,690 | 200 |
| Washington | $39,990 | $45,600 | $49,820 | 1,040 |
| Oregon | $39,070 | $45,580 | $49,200 | 2,390 |
| Nebraska | $35,190 | $45,470 | $46,820 | 210 |
| Arkansas | $37,400 | $45,250 | $45,550 | 1,580 |
| Iowa | $40,350 | $45,250 | $47,200 | 560 |
All 43 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 machine feeders and offbearers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7063.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.