Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Mixing and blending machine setters, operators, and tenders control equipment that combines materials like chemicals, tobacco, liquids, pigments, and explosives into specified mixtures. They work in manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, pharmaceutical companies, food processing plants, and other industrial settings where precise material combinations are required.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against mixing and blending machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Workers monitor mixing equipment, load raw materials according to formulas, and adjust machine settings for temperature, speed, and duration. They record batch information, inspect finished products for consistency, and perform routine cleaning and maintenance. Quality checks ensure materials blend correctly. Work involves standing for extended periods, following safety protocols, and sometimes operating heavy machinery in indoor factory environments.
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 role if you prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented and follow established rules and specifications carefully. You're comfortable with repetitive tasks and machine operation, and you take safety seriously in industrial settings.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $50,360 | $60,790 | $65,870 | 420 |
| Minnesota | $50,000 | $59,270 | $65,920 | 1,760 |
| Wyoming | $52,430 | $58,320 | $73,300 | 210 |
| New Jersey | $46,690 | $57,810 | $65,850 | 2,050 |
| Maine | $48,120 | $55,540 | $63,590 | 220 |
| Connecticut | $47,630 | $53,830 | $67,230 | 260 |
| Washington | $46,990 | $53,800 | $63,390 | 2,270 |
| Illinois | $46,120 | $53,560 | $63,320 | 10,240 |
| Maryland | $45,090 | $53,480 | $62,370 | 770 |
| New York | $43,660 | $53,170 | $61,680 | 4,340 |
| Wisconsin | $46,870 | $52,200 | $62,230 | 3,380 |
| New Hampshire | $49,180 | $51,920 | $60,890 | 310 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Level II Machine Lubricant Analyst (MLA) — International Council for Machinery Lubrication
- Level III Machine Lubricant Analyst — International Council for Machinery Lubrication
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 mixing and blending machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.