Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Milling and planing machine setters, operators, and tenders set up and operate machines that shape metal and plastic workpieces by cutting, grooving, or planing surfaces. They work in manufacturing facilities, machine shops, and factories where precision metal and plastic parts are produced for various industries.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against milling and planing 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 reviewing job specifications and blueprints, adjusting machine settings like speed and depth of cut, loading workpieces into machines, and monitoring production runs. Operators measure finished parts for accuracy, make adjustments to maintain tolerances, and troubleshoot mechanical issues. Tasks include changing cutting tools, performing maintenance checks, and documenting production results throughout their shift.
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 prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented and comfortable following established processes, enjoy working with machinery and tools, and take satisfaction in producing quality parts that meet exact specifications.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $78,200 | $86,460 | $105,430 | 240 |
| Connecticut | $47,700 | $79,300 | $81,600 | 150 |
| Kentucky | $55,880 | $66,440 | $68,670 | 540 |
| Illinois | $48,920 | $63,360 | $64,700 | 570 |
| Massachusetts | $52,240 | $62,380 | $81,290 | — |
| Nebraska | $48,060 | $59,630 | $63,730 | 70 |
| California | $47,600 | $59,050 | $75,630 | 1,960 |
| Wisconsin | $48,170 | $58,770 | $62,520 | 280 |
| Indiana | $49,140 | $57,720 | $59,520 | 590 |
| New York | $47,110 | $56,560 | $81,030 | 550 |
| Virginia | $46,410 | $56,410 | $64,490 | 90 |
| Maryland | $47,580 | $56,080 | $63,290 | 50 |
All 36 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Machining Level I - CNC Milling: Programming Setup & Operations — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level I - CNC Mill Operations — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level I - Milling — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level II - Milling — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level II - CNC Milling II — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Autodesk Certified Associate in CAM 2.5 Axis Milling (ACA) — Autodesk, Inc.
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 milling and planing machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4035.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.